January 2017 Issue

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January 2017 | Charlotte Edition | NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

Weight-Loss SABOTEURSTackling Obesity’s Hidden Causes

January 2017 | Charlotte Edition | NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

Local Practitioners Give Health Advice

FOR ALL BUDGETS

January 2017 | Charlotte Edition | NaturalAwakeningsMag.com January 2017 | Charlotte Edition | NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

Local Practitioners Give Health Advice

TRANSFORMING

TATTOOSin Charlotte

2 Charlotte Edition AwakeningCharlotte.com

8 newsbriefs 14 healthbriefs 18 globalbriefs 10 ecotip 19 community spotlight 26 healingways 28 fitbody 30 consciouseating 32 healthykids 34 naturalpet 36 calendar 40 classifieds 40 resourceguide

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Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more balanced life. In each issue readers find cutting-edge information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.

20 HEALTHY AND WEALTHY Staying Well on a Budget — Naturally by Michelle Bense

22 WEIGHT-LOSS SABOTEURS Tackling Obesity’s Hidden Causes by Lisa Marshall

26 AFFORDABLE COMPLEMENTARY CARE Alternatives to Insurance Cost Less by Meredith Montgomery

28 BODY SCULPT WITH KETTLEBELLS Workouts Burn Fat and Tone Muscle by Taylor Geiger

30 THE DARK SIDE OF GLUTEN-FREE LIVING Most People Benefi t from Gluten by Judith Fertig

32 THE WILD AND WOOLY TEEN BRAIN What Kids Need from Us to Grow Wise by April Thompson

34 FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE FOR PETS Why the Best Vets Use It by Shawn Messonnier

GLUTEN-FREE LIVING

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FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE 34

contents

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19825 N. Cove Rd., #176Cornelius, NC 28031

Phone: 704-499-3327Fax: 866-632-9118

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EditorialKimberly LawsonKim-Lawson.com Jeanette Watkins

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© 2016 by Natural Awakenings. All rights re-served. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

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letterfrompublisher

January brings Natural Awakenings’ special Health and Wellness issue, and I hope you are excited as I am by

the content: insurance alternatives that cover complemen-tary therapies and integrative medicine; a comprehensive and, I think, less guilt provoking look at overcoming hurdles to weight-loss; a local story of healing through tattoo art; thoughtful recommendations by Charlotte area natural healthcare providers; local fitness options; and the list goes on.

We encourage readers to try a healing therapy that’s new to you this year and watch what unfolds. Several years

ago during a particularly stressful time, my doctor surprised me by suggesting acupuncture. I tried it, and the results were immediate, with such a level of re-lief that I looked forward to these weekly sessions. During each treatment, I felt so relaxed that I would drift off, waking near the conclusion still feeling relaxed but now aware of energy pulsing through my body. Afterward, I felt calm and relaxed for the rest of the day. I don’t do it as often now, and the effect is not as dramatic, but I know it benefits me.

Choice excited me and we can be grateful for the multitude of options avail-able to us. No single therapy, nutrition plan or exercise regimen suits us all, and Charlotte is full of business owners that understand how to effectively support diverse individual needs.

May this issue introduce you to the resources you need to promote you and your family’s health and wellness throughout 2017.

Wishing you health and happiness,

Shannon McKenzie, Publisher


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FOUNDATIONS OF AYURVEDA Thursdays in February | 6:45-9pm

1040 Edgewater Corporate Pkwy, Indian Land, SC 29707(Route 521 near Highway 160, next to Lowe's parking lot)

Four Classes $199/total RSVP (704)360-8889 IntegraWellnessCenter.com

This four-week course is packed with education about the fundamental concepts of Ayurveda and provides experiential nutritional & lifestyle practices to make it easy to integrate the wis-dom of this ancient science into everyday life. Each session includes a delicious ayurvedic dish, lecture, handouts and recipes.

Just 3 miles south of Ballantyne

Course led by Ayurvedic Health Counselor andYoga Teacher Lisa Moore


Foundations of Ayurveda Course Starts in FebruaryIntegra Wellness Center will hold a

four-week course in February packed with education about the fundamental concepts of Ayurveda. It will also pro-vide experiential nutritional and lifestyle practices to make it easy to integrate the wisdom of Ayurveda into everyday life. Participants will gain valuable insight to a time-tested science steeped in a solid phi-losophy that includes the interplay of the body, mind and spirit. They will discover the art and science of this 5,000-year-old healing system. Ayurveda is a natural and inspiring approach to enhancing health, happiness and longevity. The course, led by Ayurvedic Health Counselor and Yoga Teacher Lisa Moore, will cover the following: The character-istics of the tridoshas (constitutions) and how to balance them; the system of using opposites as medicine; how to kindle digestive fi re; Ayurvedic nutrition, using herbs and spices as culinary medicine; daily routines for well-being and the mar-

riage of yoga and Ayurveda as a complete healthcare system. The classes will take place Thursdays from 6:45 – 9 p.m. on February 2, 9, 16 and 23. The cost is $199. Each ses-sion includes a delicious Ayurvedic dish, lecture, handouts and recipes.

Location: 1040 Edgewater Corporate Pkwy., Indian Land, SC (3 miles from Ballantyne). For more information or to register, call 704-360-8889 or visit Inte-graWellnessCenter.com. See ad, page 6.

newsbriefs

Wonderful, Whimsical Provisions for the SOUL

Products And Events That Inspire Creativity, Spirituality, Hilarity,

Random Enchantment and unmitigated Bodaciousness!and unmitigated

(704) 338-9778

1710 Kenilworth Ave, Ste 200Charlotte, NC • www.the-bag-lady.biz

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Community Acupuncture Makes Treatment Affordable

Affordable community acupuncture is available in the Charlotte area. Com-

munity acupuncture is a newer model of care in the acupuncture industry. Two Trees Acupuncture utilizes zero gravity lounge chairs in a group setting and of-fers these treatments on a sliding scale of $20 - $45 so that everyone can afford to receive quality acupuncture. Privacy is maintained by discussing your condition in a separate private room before entering their Oak community room.Chinese medicine is the second largest medical system in the world. It is a useful complementary therapy alongside many other medical treatments, as well as be-ing able to provide effective stand-alone treatments for a variety of conditions. Acupuncture is a way to stay healthy, al-

leviate aches and pains and de-stress this winter. Affordable acupuncture has been somewhat elusive for most people, and there is fi nally a cost-effective alternative outside of the realm of insurance. At Two Trees Acupuncture clinic, com-munity acupuncture is offered every week on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 3 - 7p.m. and Saturdays from 12 - 5 p.m.

Location: 1318 Central Ave., Ste. A-3 in the same shopping center as Healthy Home Market Wellness Center. For more informa-tion and to schedule an appointment, call 704-770-1318 or visit TwoTreesAcupunc-ture.com. See ad, page 8.


REFRESH 2017Wellness Expo “Empowered Living”

Cooking Demo/Talk •Healing TherapiesPsychic/Intuitive Readers Room •Giveaways, Prizes and Fun!

Watch For Live Videos, Special Guests, & Workshops: www.Facebook.com/ElementalHealingCharlotte

Register at: www.ElementalHealingCharlotte.com

Saturday January 7, 2017 11:00am-5:00pm

Guidepost to Wellness Health Coaching Opens in GastoniaGuidepost to Wellness Health Coach-

ing recently opened in Gastonia. Instead of following a traditional path that focuses on calorie counting, dietary restrictions, and incorrect information about what is healthy and what is not, owner Kristy Duncan coaches her cli-ents to explore basic improvements and implement gradual changes during their work together. Based on the concept of bio-individuality and knowing no one diet or lifestyle works for every person, Duncan’s commitment is to be an advo-cate, coach, and guide in helping people discover what works best for them. She offers free initial health consultations and personalized one-on-one coaching. Duncan has taken her own health journey and has been in remission from an autoimmune disease for over 20 years by making better daily choices. She com-pleted a Master’s of Science in Nutrition from the University of Bridgeport in Con-necticut and is also a certifi ed Integrative Nutrition Health Coach from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN). Guidepost to Wellness is located at the Southeast Chiropractic offi ce on Cox Road in Gastonia. Dr. Crown Hoffman is excited to have Guidepost to Wellness in his offi ce. “For years, our offi ce has sought to develop a natural healthcare destination for Gaston County. Our vi-sion is to have many natural health care providers, all under one roof, so that we can provide evidence-based natural medicine to the community. Kristy, as a nutrition consultant and health coach, provides a very important and essential service in our healthcare model. We look forward to working and growing with her in 2017,” says Hoffman.”

For more information, call 704-879-1701, visit GuidepostToWellnessllc.com or visit them on Facebook @GuidepostToWell-ness. See ad, page 33.


newsbriefs

Carolinas Natural Health Center Gives Talks on Holistic HealthDr. Michael Smith, founder of Carolinas

Natural Health Center, will be speak-ing on the topic of “the missing link to health challenges” every Tuesday in January at 7

p.m. The current health-care system uses the band-aid approach to mask symptoms while naturopathic medicine is an approach to health that focuses on treating the whole person by ad-dressing the root cause of health concerns. Dr. Smith is trained as a primary

care physician and takes a holistic ap-proach to treat the whole person, not just the symptom, disease or illness. As a naturopathic physician, he understands all aspects of health, including physical and mental/emotional wellness. “We take time to listen to you and help you understand exactly what we need

to do to improve your health. Through whole-food nutrition, homeopathy, herbal medicine, appropriate diagnostic testing, education, coaching and support, you are able to achieve the health you truly want and deserve,” says Smith. Carolina Natural Health Center has been empowering thousands of people to attain better health for 11 years in the Charlotte area. Smith founded Carolinas Natural Health Center with a vision of transforming healthcare one person at a time. The center provides therapies that bridge both conventional and natural medicine and integrates scientific re-search with the healing power of nature. Anyone who would like more in-formation about holistic health or is struggling with an autoimmune disease, diabetes, digestive disorder, or any other ailment is welcome to attend the talk. Reservations are required. Location: 1114 Sam Newell Rd., Ste. A, Matthews. For more information, call 704-708-4404 or visit CarolinasNaturalHealth.com. See ad, page 31.

Dr. Michael Smith

New Natural Oral Care Products Now Available Locally

Oral Essentials, the groundbreaking line of naturally derived, dentist-formulat-

ed oral care products out of California, is now available in the Charlotte area. Oral Essentials mouthwash and toothpaste utilize Dead Sea salt, French essential oils, organic aloe vera, and xylitol to reduce the risk of cavities and freshen breath. Created by celebrity dentist Dr. Koroush Maddahi and world-renowned periodontist Hessam Nowzari, D.D.S., Ph.D., Oral Es-sentials offers a unique attack on halitosis and promotes gum health. The company produces their products in small batches in Southern California and double pasteur-izes their formulas to ensure freshness. This forward-thinking brand combines old-world remedies with clinical research to deliver a simple and impressive group of formulas specifically designed to address four com-mon problems in dentistry: gum health, tooth sensitivity, dry mouth, and tooth stains. Oral Essentials also has a great taste.

You can purchase Original Formula Mouthwash and Toothpaste, Dry Mouth Formula Mouthwash, Sensitivity Formula Mouthwash and Toothpaste, or Whitening Formula Mouthwash and Toothpaste at the following locations: CMC Pharmacy at 4525 Cameron Valley Parkway, Gumbo at 1916 Com-monwealth Avenue and Dilworth Drug and Wellness at 1300 East Boulevard, Suite B in Charlotte; Three Prescriptions Plus loca-tions: 1614 West Franklin Boulevard, Gas-tonia, 793 East King Street and 1114 West Gold Street Extension in Kings Mountain: Andelana Spa and NorthState Medical at 2266 North Highway 16 in Denver.

For more information, call 704-619-8802, email [email protected], or visit OralEssentials.com. See ad, page 5.

Pranic Healing Workshop with Master Marilag Mendoza

Pranic Healing and Wellness presents Master Marilag Men-

doza’s “Holistic Healing – The Key to Happiness,” workshop on Saturday,

January 28 from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. During this introductory and experiential work-shop with Master Marilag Mendoza, participants will learn the di f fer-ent aspects of the wheel of happiness

to live a balanced and fulfilling life. They will also learn to assess each aspect of the following to identify imbalances: health, career, relation-ships, finances, family, entertain-ment, travel, education/self-develop-ment, and spirituality. Practical tools and techniques to achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life will also be discussed. Mendoza’s accomplishments as a life coach, global energy healer, international lecturer and one of only eight Master Pranic Healers in the world today have established her as one of the most respected and admired rising female figures in the world of energy healing. In addition to all of this, Mendoza is most proud of being a parent and raising her three sons. The cost of the workshop is $97 and those who sign up can bring a friend or family member for free. Reg-istration is available online.

Location: Unity of Charlotte, 401 E. Arrowood Rd. To register, visit PranicHealingAndWellness.com/courses.html. For more information, call 850-380-0561, email [email protected] or visit PranicHealingAndWellness.com and PranicHealingCharlotte.com. See ad, page 14.

Master Marilag Mendoza


Our New Yoga Studio Is Now Open!

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A great place for artists of all types to unwind – mind and body. Classes in yoga, cardio fitness, and the fine arts are offered.

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Six-Week Qigong Class Offered at Empower Life Center

The Empower Life Center will start their six-week Qigong class on Thursday,

January 12 at 6:30 p.m. Qigong is a simple but powerful exercise for balancing life en-ergy and healing your body. In this six-week class, you will learn the 12 essential Qigong exercises to promote the fl ow of life energy or Chi along the acupuncture energy meridians, how to increase your vitality and energy level, and help prevent chronic health disorders. The class will introduce Qigong exercises for lungs, heart, liver, kidneys, circulation, hormones, and immune system. The exercises will substantially improve your health. Camilo Sanchez, L.Ac, MAOM, is a licensed acupuncturist and director of the Empower Life Center. He has 24 years of clinical and teaching experience. His areas of expertise include self-healing, pre-ventative therapies, integrative medicine consulting, and mind and body wellness. Sanchez holds a Master’s degree in Orien-tal medicine and is a published author. Qigong is becoming more popular as an effective health and energy exercise for many people and as a viable alternative to more demanding yoga exercises. Many people are looking for a gentle exercise method to start the new year in a healthy and positive direction. The class will em-power people to take charge of their own health, balance their energy and enhance mind and body wellness. The class will end on Thursday, Febru-ary 16. Early registration is recommended as the class size is limited to 15 people.

Location: 14136 Lancaster Hwy. For more in-formation or to register, call 704-542-8088 or visit EmpowerLifeCenter.com. See ad, page 43.

harmony yoga

Jan 8 Ayurvedic Detox Practices

Jan 12 Shamanic Journey

Feb 2 Foundations of Ayurveda

Group/Private Classes * Ayurveda * Workshops

HarmonyYogaNC.com704-277-3887Lisa Moore E-RYT 500

Workshops

Small classes, big experiences.


newsbriefs Full Body Thermography Offered at Dillon Natural Health Dillon Natural Health in Cotswold has a

variety of services including full body thermography. Full body thermography shows infl ammation in the body including major diseases like cardiovascular disease, female hormone issues and digestive issues in their

earliest and most treat-able stage. Early diagno-sis allows for less drastic and less toxic treatments. Many times, when caught early, simple remedies like changes in diet or lifestyle, and adding certain nutri-ents will address the issues and help bring the body back into balance. It is in

the earliest stages that diseases are the most treatable. Full body thermography is one of the best, non-invasive, radiation-free methods to identify these problem areas in their infancy. A full body thermography scan has no ra-diation, down time, incisions, or chemical prep-ping and is quick. Before receiving the scan, Dillon Natural Health will discuss a patient’s history and identify any painful areas. A report from a specially trained medical radiologist interpreting the results is available in a couple of days compared to the usual two or more week wait for results from a doctor’s offi ce. Thermography is a cost-effective way to see the health of the body and allows for the identifi cation of potentially deadly problem areas as full body thermography will identify even minuscule infl amma-tion. When people can see their pain and infl ammation, they generally make positive changes in their health and environment. A follow-up scan then shows the results. Many will continue their healthy lifestyles when they know they have control over it. If there is overall body infl ammation or multiple joint pain or digestive issues, a 10 or 21-day purifi cation can be very helpful in addressing the issues. The cost of the full body scan is $325 which includes the breast series. For $425, you also get a three-month follow-up with just the breast series. Scans can be scheduled Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. with some Saturday hours.

Location: 447 S. Sharon Amity Rd., Ste. 110, Cotswold. For more information or to make an appointment, call 704-333-9991 or visit DillonNaturalHealth.com. See ad, page 12.

Dr. Jennifer Dillon

The Spiritual Light Center of Charlotte is hosting an afternoon with Susan

Reynolds on Sunday, January 22 begin-ning at 1:00 p.m. Reynolds will offer her astrological and intuitive predictions for the upcoming year. I n t he pa s t , Reynolds has pre-dicted the earth-quake in Japan, wor ldwide eco-n o m i c ch a n g e s and the birth of Princess Charlotte. During her talk, she will discuss what will happen in 2017 on the political front as well as geographical and economic happenings. She will also speak about celebrity and entertain-ment news as well. Our nation is in the midst of great change and upheaval. This is

the time when everyone should be paying attention to the future. People in the spiritual community know that our thoughts, prayers and actions can make a difference. In addition to general predictions, Reynolds will also speak about each astrological sign and what the year ahead holds. Everyone will get a sneak peek at his or her own future. The Spiritual Light Center of Char-lotte, a church in the New Thought Tradition, has a Sunday service at 10:30 a.m., followed by fellowship and a light lunch in the Light House. All are welcome to attend the service, visit for lunch and then move to the chapel for Reynolds’ talk.

Location: 7300 Mallard Creek Rd. For more information, call 704-599-1180, email [email protected] or visit SLCofCharlotte.org. See ad, page 42.

Susan Reynolds

The Spiritual Light Center of Charlotte Hosts Predictions for 2017

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Free Me From Sugar Detox Program Offered by Namaste Green Merritt Tracy and Jennie Dawkins, Integrative Nutrition Health Coaches and founders of Namaste Green, are kicking off the new year with the “Free Me From Sugar 6-Week Sugar Detox” to kick the sugar habit. The on-line detox starts January 19 and will be held daily on Facebook through March 2. The cost of the program is $159 for six weeks. The coaches will have daily con-tact with the participants on Facebook and will have a weekly live call on Thursdays where the coaches will educate them on the dangers of sugar and where participants can talk about their progress. The program offers two approaches. If you take the “all-in” approach, you will

give up sugar (except fruit) for the entire six weeks. In the “step-in” approach, you will wean yourself off sugar by removing vari-ous forms of it one week at a time through-out the course of the program. Including the weekly coaching call, the program is packed with additional benefits including shopping lists, a private Facebook group, recipes, meal suggestions and nutritional education. Participants will receive a welcome packet with all the information needed when they register. Namaste Green’s mission is to change

lives through healing, balance, and community. With a variety of offerings including individual health coaching pro-grams, on-line group programs, corporate programs and workshops, you can find exactly what you need to integrate healthy living into your daily schedule. According to Tracy and Dawkins, there is an obvious problem with over consumption of sugar in our culture. Even those who don’t think they consume much sugar can benefit from cutting back. Namaste Green created the detox program to support people who want to kick the sugar habit and to offer the convenience of an on-line program.

For more information, visit FreeMeFrom-Sugar.com to register for the six-week detox or NamasteGreen.com to learn more about their programs. If you have any questions, call 704-492-5416. See ad, page 11.

The best way to find out if you can trust somebody is to trust them.

~Ernest Hemingway


Everyone has heard or said things like: “I was so scared I was shaking in my

boots,” and “I was shaking like a leaf after witnessing the accident.” Body tremors are com-monly experienced during or right after a stressful event, and are called neurogen-ic tremors because they are a neuro-logical response to a stressful situa-tion. This response exists across all mammal species. Its purpose is to reduce the high aroused state of the stressful or traumatic experi-ence, to reset the nervous system and to activate the relaxation response. Since these tremors have often been associated with a reduced abil-

ity to cope with stress, and as sign of weakness and vulnerability, leading neurologists, such as Dr. Peter Levine, believe that “humans have been social-ized out of this naturally occurring response”. As a result, energy and stress get trapped in the body, creating symp-toms like insomnia, headaches, low energy, reduced immune function, high blood pressure, tight muscles and pain. TRE, created by Trauma Recovery Therapist, Dr. David Berceli, Ph.D., is one method designed to release the stuck and stored stress in the body through exercise induced tremors. TRE stands for “tension and trauma releas-ing exercises”, and when led by a cer-tifi ed provider in a safe and controlled environment, this technique holds a high therapeutic value. This method, which takes advantage of this already

built-in restorative response that we all possess, involves a short series of exercises that activates the shaking/vibrating mechanism. Since this is a body-based therapy, it isn’t about reliving any event, but purely about releasing stored energy from the body and restoring balance. According to TraumaPrevention.com, “This modality has been used suc-cessfully in over 40 countries for recov-ery from chronic stress or post-trauma symptoms due to generalized life situ-ations, accidents, natural disasters and political violence.”

Nancy Bunt, founder of A Reiki Life Academy, is the only certified TRE pro-vider in the Charlotte area. Connect at 704-996-4079 and AReikiLife.com. See ad, page 31.

healthbriefs

Exercise Induced Tremors Have Therapeutic Benefits

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Autism Risk Linked to Banned ChemicalsA study from Drexel University, in Philadelphia, has

linked autism spectrum disorder with prenatal exposure to organochlorine chemicals. The researchers examined 1,144 children born in southern California between 2000 and 2003 with mothers that had enrolled in a state-sponsored prenatal screening program. Blood tests were taken during their second trimester of preg-nancy, a critical time for neurodevelopment, to measure exposure to organochlorine chemicals, including poly-chlorinated biphenyls (PCB) and pesticides such as DDT. These compounds were banned from production in the U.S. in 1977, but remain in the environment. It’s well known that they can cross the placental barrier, impacting neurodevel-opment in fetuses. The researchers selected participants based on previous health diagnoses: 545 children with autism spectrum disorder and 181 with intellectual disabilities, plus 418 free of both issues as a control group. They found a 50 to 82 percent increased autism risk in children with the highest levels of four identified PCB compounds in utero, based on which ones were present. “The results suggest that prenatal exposure to these chemicals above a certain level may influence neurodevelopment in adverse ways,” says Kristen Lyall, Sc.D., assistant professor in the university’s A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, promising further related studies.

Ayurvedic Program Improves Blood ChemistryA clinical trial from the University of

California-San Diego School of Medi-cine found that participants in a six-day, ayurvedic-based, well-being program showed metabolic improvements in blood tests for inflammation, cardiovascular disease risk (CDR) and cholesterol levels. Study participants consisted of 119 healthy men and women between the ages of 30 and 80. Sixty-five experienced a pan-chakarma program, a detox and rejuvenation protocol involving a vegetarian diet, medi-tation, yoga, massage, herbal therapy and other healing therapies. The other 54 served as a control group. Blood was analyzed before and after the test period. The researchers, led by Dr. Deepak Chopra, found measurable decreases in 12 phosphatidycholines (cell-membrane chemicals) associated with cholesterol, inflammation, CDR and Type 2 diabetes risk. They acknowledge that due to the short duration of the trial, the immediate changes were likely attributable to the vegetarian diet; more research is needed to determine the complementary role of the other therapies. “It appears that a one-week panchakarma program can significantly alter the metabolic profile of the person undergoing it,” remarks Chopra.

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Early Job Satisfaction Supports Long-Term HealthResearchers from Ohio State Univer-

sity, in Columbus, started with data from 6,432 participants in the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, conducted in 1979, to study the impact that early job satisfaction has upon health as we age. The new study examined reports of job satisfaction on a scale of one (dislike very much) to four (like very much) for participants between the ages of 25 and 39. Then they compared the responses to mental and physical health reports measured after the participants turned 40. Those that reported low job sat-isfaction throughout their 20s and 30s exhibited higher levels of emotional problems, depression, sleep problems and excessive worry. Individuals that started out satisfied with their jobs but became less satisfied over time also faced sleep and anxiety difficulties, but exhibited less depression. The partici-pants that reported increasing job sat-isfaction in their 20s and 30s reported fewer mental health problems. The correlation between physical health after 40 and early job satisfac-tion was not as strong, but university associate professor of sociology Hui Zheng notes, “Increased anxiety and depression could lead to cardiovascular or other health problems that won’t show up until they are older.”

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Parents Use Complementary Health Care for Kids

The 2012 National Health Interview Survey, pub-lished in 2015, included a survey on the use of

complementary medicine practices. Nearly 45,000 Americans were questioned, including more than 10,000 children between the ages of 4 and 17. The survey found that nearly 12 percent of chil-dren had used complementary medicine, either in a practice or product, during the year studied. The most common form of alternative medicine among children was natural supplements, such as fish oil,

probiotics and melatonin. Chiropractic care and yoga were also popular choices. Researchers found that parents sought complementary approaches most often for children due to back or neck pain, musculoskeletal conditions, colds, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder or insomnia.

Exercise in Midlife Helps Preserve Mental Sharpness

A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease in July confirms that physical activity in

midlife can help reduce the chances of developing cognitive impairment in old age. Scientists studied data on the physical activity levels from 3,050 twins in Finland given questionnaires in 1975 and 1981. A phone interview more than 25 years later served as a follow-up cognitive evaluation, and the subjects were divided into three categories: cogni-tively impaired, suffering mild cognitive impairment or cognitively healthy. Individuals that participated

in vigorous physical activity when they were middle-aged displayed lower levels of cognitive impairment compared to those that did less vigorous exercise.

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Early-to-Bed Kids at Less Risk of ObesityResearch from the Ohio State University College of

Public Health, in Columbus, suggests that the risk of childhood obesity, a growing concern in the U.S., can be reduced by putting children to bed before 8 p.m. The researchers examined reports from mothers of 977 4-and-a-half-year-old children born in 1991 regarding their typical weekday bedtimes. The answers were divided into three categories: 8 p.m. or earlier, between 8 and 9 p.m. and later. Responses were compared to the obesity levels of the same children at an average age of 15. Of the group with the earliest bedtime, comprising about 25 percent of the subjects, only one in 10 were obese, compared to 16 percent of those with childhood bed-times between 8 and 9 p.m., representing 50 percent of the subjects. The youngsters that went to bed the latest reported a 23 percent obesity rate, the highest overall. Dr. Meena Khan, a sleep medicine specialist at the university’s Wexner Medi-cal Study Center, comments about the challenge of maintaining proper bedtimes: “Kids do well with a schedule and a routine.”

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globalbriefsNews and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.

Protecting PollinatorsMaryland Bans Bee-Killing PesticidesMaryland is the first state in the nation to pass strict restric-tions on pesticides thought to be responsible for significant reductions in bee populations with enactment of its Pollinator Protection Act. Maryland lost more than 60 percent of its hives in 2015, each containing up to 20,000 honeybees, making it one of the states with the highest recorded declines. The national average is about 42 percent, yet across the country, farmers and gardeners are still using pesti-cides linked to colony collapse disorder. Globally, more than one-third of the world’s food supply could be at risk if these and other pollinators are lost. Neonicotinoids are one potent class of systemic pesticides introduced to agriculture in the 1990s that have been linked to bees’ demise. In recent years, pesticides such as Knockout Ready-to-Use Grub Killer, Ortho Bug B Gon, and All-In-One Rose & Flower Care have been made available to consumers and beekeep-ers have noticed a corresponding increase in bee deaths. The Maryland law bans the use of neonicotinoids by everyday consumers that have been spraying home gardens and trees with these deadly pesticides. Farmers and professional gardeners are exempt from the law. A similar law is awaiting the governor’s signature in Connecticut. Although the U.S. Department of Agriculture has not officially recognized the well-researched link, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is reviewing it.

Source: BeyondPesticides.org

Airline AirRecirculating Jet Air Linked to IllnessAerotoxic syndrome is the medical term for the illness caused by exposure to contaminated air in jet aircraft, and it’s causing that ail-ment, plus the permanent disability and even death of airline employees and passengers. Whistleblowers have been met with ridicule and termination. The problem has been called the “asbestos of the airline industry” by critics. French scientist Jean-Cristophe Balouet, Ph.D., who discovered the syndrome in 1999, thinks it may have already affected 250,000 pilots, cabin crew and passengers worldwide. In 1963, aircraft moved from drawing fresh air into the cabin to “bleeding” part of it from the engines. The synthetic oil used by jets contains organophosphates used in pesticides and nerve gas, and was banned by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for residential use in 2001 because of known toxicity. The byproducts of these carcinogenic organophosphates can also include aldehydes and carbon monoxide. Airplane seals wear out and there are no chemical sensors onboard aircraft to detect fumes—only noses to detect the “dirty sock” odor. The Aerotoxic Association continues to push for air quality detectors on all planes and the Cabin Air Quality Act sponsored by Califor-nia Senator Dianne Feinstein. For more information, visit Aerotoxic.org.

Eat SaferWebsite Screens Packaging for ToxinAlthough food manufacturers have pledged to voluntarily eliminate bisphenol A (BPA)—an endocrine disruptor linked to developmental problems in fetuses, infants and chil-dren—in their packaging materials, it’s still found in the lining of many canned goods. Recent testing by an advocacy group found BPA in 70 percent of nearly 200 samples, including products from Campbell and Kroger, which have joined the pledge. “It’s in beer, coffee, tea, energy drinks and aerosol cans for whipped cream... it’s everywhere,” says Samara Geller, a database and research analyst with the Environmental Working Group (EWG). According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, BPA is safe at the levels people are exposed to via canned foods, but many consumers would rather not take the risk. Consequently, EWG created a new tool to help consumers avoid the 16,000 products that may have BPA in their packaging. The numbers listed on package UPC codes can be compared against the database at Tinyurl.com/EWG-BPA-Lookup. “Our main goal was to get this out quickly to as many people as possible,” says Geller. “The UPC code is really your best defense to finding out what they’re talking about,” because product names can change.

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communityspotlight

Long before red hearts with the word “Mom” in the center became popular body art, people turned to tattooing

for healing. The second oldest evidence of tattooing can be found on the body of a 5,300-year-old mummy named “Iceman,” and its purposes appear to have been medicinal. He had a total of 57 tattoos, an article on Smithsonian.com explained: “short lines etched in groups on his lower back and ankles, a cross behind his right knee and two rings around his left wrist.” Lars Krutak, an archaeologist, studied the body. “Incredibly, approximately 80 percent of these tattoos overlap with clas-sical Chinese acupuncture points utilized to treat rheumatism, a medical condition that plagued the Iceman,” he wrote in his book, Spiritual Skin: Magical Tattoos and Scarification. “Other tattoos were found to be located on or near acupuncture meridians that may have had the purpose of relieving other ailments, like gastro-intestinal problems.” Whether by accident or experi-mentation, people found tattooing to relieve their ailments, Krutak told Smithsonian.org. Local tattoo artist Hayley Moran, who attended her first tattoo convention at 14, understands the healing power of tattooing, albeit in a more metaphysical sense. Previously, she worked at Immortal Images on Monroe Road and later Fu’s Custom Tattoo in NoDa, but she says it

became clear to her that “even though I’m a part of this tattoo industry world, they’re not necessarily my people.” Tattoo studios tend to have this stereotype of being a little rough on the edge, she explains. “What I wanted to exude was more of this self-actualization through artistic expression of the inner world on the outside, on the flesh,” Moran says. She opened her all-female studio Haylo Heal-ing Arts Lounge in 2015 in the old Yoga One space beneath Green With Envy in Plaza Midwood. In addition to offering tattooing and permanent makeup services, the space plays host to yoga workshops, elemental art events and more. Moran says her clientele tends to be “those who are seeking tattoo art as symbols of the soul.” Oftentimes, they’re people who are interested in getting body art to represent something meaningful, such as an internal shift away from ideals impressed upon them from their child-hood. They’re not just getting a tattoo because it’s cool, she says. It’s part of the reason why the studio’s name doesn’t even have the word “tattoo” in it. “Really, in all my work,” she ex-plains, “I try to represent a transition and transformation, moving from one thing to another.” One example she offers is a new piece she started in December for her studio manager. “She loves nature and ferns,” Moran says, “and the fern is kind of this example [of] repeating life and growth patterns in everything, in flowers, in plant

Transforming TattoosHaylo Healing Arts Lounge Shifts the Stereotype of Permanent Ink

by Kimberly Lawson

life and humans.” At the time of our interview, the work had some spiraling and multidirectional elements, includ-ing unfolding petals and leaves, snaking across the woman’s shoulder and down her arm. Moran says her goal with every piece is to show movement on the body and make the artwork a part of the human form: “So it’s not, ‘Here’s a tattoo on your arm.’ It’s, ‘your arm is now a fern forest full of growth and transformation.’” Part of what informs Moran’s work is the belief that tattoo art is a spiri-tual practice. In addition to a literal physical healing, the journey is also metaphorical for internal healing as well. “Not only are you able to express and visually represent those symbols that are stirring within your own soul, you also get to go through a little bit of pain, watch the transformation, and know that you made it,” she says. “You feel empowerment from that, and then you watch your skin actually show you the transformation, the peeling and then the healing of this artwork that’s on your body now forever.” “It’s a really powerful, personal choice,” she continues, “where you know something about yourself and then you take a step forward in living in that truth. And then you’ve got this representation that now people are go-ing to ask about, and you get to relive your story and tell your story if you want to share that with other people. It’s kind of a testimony.” “I think true healing comes through all those facets: emotional, mental, physical and spiritual, through choice, experience and in recognition.”

Haylo Healing Arts Lounge is located at 1111 Central Ave., Ste. 100. Call 704-332-3377 or visit HayloStudioLounge.com for more information.

Inside Haylo Healing Arts Lounge

A sample of Hayley Moran’s work

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With the new year comes plenty of old advice. Every-where we look, there are

reminders to join the gym, stop eat-ing junk food, get a juicer, take new supplements, only eat organic—i.e. more expensive—and devote time and energy to consciously making a whole set of different choices.

But how can we get and stay healthy naturally, without breaking the bank? Charlotte area practitioners shared their simple, effective advice for being healthy every day, thereby tackling health issues before they require medi-cation and more costly measures.

Rhya Pachin, a Functional Dietitian Nutritionist at Integra Wellness, knows that

eating well is the first and most important step to staying healthy and avoiding reliance on expensive medica-tions. “Eating healthy can appear expensive, but if you commit to cooking and preparing most of your own food

at home, most budgets can accommodate a wholesome menu,” says Pachin, who uses a whole-foods diet, genetic testing, food/chemical sensitivity testing and mi-cronutrient evaluation to create a person-alized nutrition plan for clients.

A whole-food diet centered around healthy fats and high-antioxidant plant foods is the best prevention against dis-ease, according to Pachin. While many worry that it’s too expensive to eat well every day, she recommends starting from the garden and working up. For those working at staying healthy on a lower income, Pachin suggests simply: “Plant a garden, cook at home, reduce/eliminate packaged foods, walk and be in nature daily.”

Those who have a bit more income to devote to getting and staying healthy should also consider inquiring about in-surance coverage for nutrition services, Pachin says. “Take advantage of visits with a functional dietitian or nutrition-

knowledgeable physician, which are often covered by insurance for reliable, evidence-based nutrition advice.”

Having trained with Andrew Weil, M.D., at the University of Arizona, Dr. Sheila Kilbane, an integrative pediatri-cian, works with families to find the

root cause of illness. The owner and found-er of Infinite Health, PLLC, Kilbane uses natural and nutrition-al therapies whenever possible in treating things such as: colic, reflux, eczema, recur-rent ear infections,

recurrent sinus infections, asthma, aller-gies, stomach and GI issues and more.

No surprise here: Kilbane says that the bottom line is “we need to eat real food.” Specifically, increase vegetables—espe-cially green leafy veggies like spinach, kale and microgreens—and increase good healthy fats, which can be found in chia, hemp and flax seed, almonds, blueber-ries, wild-caught sockeye salmon and other cold water fish.

“If I could pick two things for people to do that would have a significant impact on their health, it would be to drink a green smoothie every morning and to stop eating or significantly re-duce dairy,” enthuses Kilbane. We can pack two or three servings of fruits and vegetables into a smoothie, she says. When it comes to many illnesses like constipation, reflux, eczema, recurrent ear infections and asthma, removing dairy from the diet for three weeks can show great improvement.

“In the end,” says Kilbane, “it is far less expensive to invest in good, healthy foods than it is to eat processed and packaged foods and to spend our pre-cious time at the doctor’s office or with a specialist.”

Dr. Jennifer Dillon, of Dillon Natural Health, is a Doctor of Chiropractic and nutritionist with expertise in inflamma-tion, hormone and endocrine issues, digestion, skin issues, sinus and lymph

congestion and more. She’s also a big proponent of thermography. “Thermog-

raphy shows overall body inflammation. This gives me an indication of the state of their health. I can see when people feed themselves well and when they don’t,” she says.

Nutrition, how-ever, is her first line of defense. “Get-ting plenty of low carbohydrate veg-etables daily and consuming good fats is extremely important,” says Dillon. “Most people are severely deficient in good fat. These include grass-fed butter, which is rich in vitamin K2, coconut oil, avocado oil, marrows and unheated olive oil. Eating fat creates much better energy patterns and prevents insulin resistance.”

She also recommends getting off of grains and processed foods. “These cause more inflammation and digestive issues, creating more hormone imbal-ances and immune issues than most people can imagine,” Dillon says.

Dillon does not file insurance, so all of her services are reasonably priced for any client looking to stay healthy. “Insurance covers disease control and does not pay for our health,” she states. For those with a bit more disposable income for health care, a 10- or 21-day purification should be considered once a year. This removes environmental toxins and toxins from many “foods” we eat, which cause considerable harm to our bodies and interrupt the body’s ability to digest properly.

Naturopathic Doctor Dave Ham-ilton, from Of the Earth Wellness, says that the most important part of any patient’s visit with him is educa-tion. “‘Docere’, or doctor, means to teach. My goal is that my patients learn something new at each visit and learn to plant their own seeds of health and grow balance naturally,” he enthuses.

Hamilton uses herbal medicine and

HEALTHY AND WEALTHYSTAYING WELL ON A BUDGET—NATURALLY

by Michelle Bense

Dr. Jennifer Dillon

Dr. Sheila Kilbane

RhyaPachin


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amino acid therapies in addressing autoimmune disease, thyroid disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, anxiety/depression and cardiovascular disease, among others. He recom-mends herbal medicine, physical medicine and nutrition as the key to

staying naturally healthy.Hamilton also started the farm Wish

We Had Acres, with the goal of providing nutritious vegetables to the local Charlotte community. “Nutrition is the most basic function of health and part of the reason we started the farm—to connect with our food source, know where our food comes from and to respect the process,” he says.

To help with patients who are concerned about cost, Hamilton offers a sliding scale, payment plans and other discounts. “We also have a piggy bank of sorts for those who want to donate as little as a nickel to as much as covering the full cost of a patient’s visit,” he says. “We use these funds to assist those in need or who come into fi nancial strife.”

Overall, Hamilton says, “Drink water, get good sleep, move your body, enjoy your community of friends and family and eat the best quality food you can afford.”

INTEGRA WELLNESS:1040 Edgewater Corporate Pkwy., Indian Land, SC. Connect at 704-360-8889 or IntegraWellnessCenter.com.

INFINITE HEALTH, PLLC:2201 Park Rd., Ste. B, Charlotte. Connect at 704-626-6771 or SheilaKilbane.com.

DILLON NATURAL HEALTH: 447 S. Sharon Amity Rd., Ste. 110, Charlotte. Connect at 704-333-9991, [email protected] or DillonNaturalHealth.com.

OF THE EARTH WELLNESS:10715 Shopton Rd. W., Charlotte. Connect at 980-272-1897, [email protected] or OfTheEarthWellness.com.

Michelle Bense is a freelance editor and writer based in Charlotte. Connect at [email protected].

Dr. Dave Hamilton

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Eat less, move more. These words have been the cornerstone of diet advice for decades, leading mil-

lions of Americans to greet the new year with vows to cut calories and hit the gym. In all, one in five U.S. adults are dieting at any given time, accord-ing to the international market research firm The NPD Group, and 57 percent would like to lose 20 pounds or more. Yet few will reach that goal. One survey of 14,000 dieters published in the International Journal of Obesity found that only one in six had ever been able to lose 10 percent of their body weight and keep it off for a year. Another study, published in the last year in Obesity, followed up with 14 contestants from the 2009 TV real-ity show The Biggest Loser and found that despite efforts to keep their eating and exercise habits on track, 13 had regained significant weight since the competition. Four are heavier now than before participating on the show.

Diet experts say the battle of the bulge has been exceedingly hard to win for one clear reason: We’re oversimplify-ing the solution and underestimating the saboteurs. “We’re learning that it’s not as simple as calories-in and calories-out,” says Dr. Pamela Wartian Smith, an Ann Arbor, Michigan, physician specializing in functional and nutritional medicine and author of Why You Can’t Lose Weight. Research reveals that everything from food allergies to hormone imbal-ances and disruptions in gut bacteria can subtly undermine the best-laid weight management plans. Working out too much or eating too little can also backfire. Even a mean boss or a cold workplace cubicle can factor in. Certainly, diet and exercise are key, experts emphasize. Yet, if we’re doing all the right things and still seeing disappointing numbers on the scale, there’s still more we can do. Here are some common weight-loss saboteurs and what to do about them.

Food Sensitivity/AllergyBite into a food we’re sensitive to and our body switches into “fight-or-flight” mode. It stores fat and water, releases histamines that widen blood vessels and inflame tissue, and cranks out stress hormones like epinephrine and

norepinephrine that make us want to eat more of that food. “You literally get a high so that you crave more,” says Smith. She notes that unlike true allergies, which can prompt an immediate reaction, food intolerances often

manifest subtly over several days. When we are repeatedly exposed

to a food we’re sensitive to, we feel bloated and sluggish, regardless of the calorie count. Allergy medications can also prompt weight gain, in part by boosting appetite. One study by Yale researchers found people that regularly ingested antihistamines like Zyrtec and Allegra were far more likely to be overweight than those not using them. What to do: First, cut out the most-craved foods. “If someone tells me they just cannot live without cheese, I assume they are allergic to it,” says Smith. Or, try an elimination diet. Ban com-mon allergens like milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts and gluten (if possible, try sticking to only rice and lamb—two hypoaller-genic foods—for four days). Then reintroduce other foods slowly and monitor the results. To combat seasonal allergies naturally, try vitamin C, quercetin and butterbur supplements.

WEIGHT-LOSS SABOTEURSTackling Obesity’s Hidden Causes

by Lisa Marshall


Underperforming ThyroidThe thyroid serves as a key metabolism regulator, dictating how efficiently the heart beats and muscles contract, how quickly the body turns nutrients into energy, and how well we burn off stored fat. When thyroid hormone production falls, metabolism can also decrease by as much as 40 percent. Yet as many as four in 13 women suffer from a thyroid hormone deficien-cy, says Toronto naturopathic doctor Natasha Turner, author of the new book The Hormone Boost. “You can diet and exercise until you are blue in the face, but if your thyroid is out of balance, you won’t achieve the body you’re looking for,” she says. “It’s a common cause of weight gain.” What to do: Get tested for levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and, if possible, T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodo-thyronine) also. TSH signals the thyroid to make more T4, the inactive form of thyroid hormone that is converted into T3, the form the body is able to use. Abnormal blood levels of any of these can impact metabolism ad-versely, and a TSH test alone may be unable to identify a problem, caution Smith and Turner. In some cases, medi-cation may be required. Otherwise, move to em-brace lifestyle habits that reduce stress levels, because the stress hormone cortisol can inhibit thyroid function. Get eight hours of sleep; sleep deprivation also impairs thyroid function. Eat lots of fiber, which helps the body eliminate excess estrogen and other thyroid-damaging metabolic byproducts. Also, stock up on foods containing tyrosine (almonds and avocadoes), and selenium (Brazil nuts). In some cases, if an iodine deficiency is at play, a doctor may suggest iodine supplements or iodine-rich foods like kelp and sea bass.

Imbalanced GutThe trillions of microorganisms in our gut have a profound impact on our ability to maintain a healthy weight, says Dr. Raphael Kellman, a New York City physician

practicing functional medicine and author of The Microbiome Diet. “The gut bacteria are the gatekeepers of the calories that enter our body,” he explains. Research shows that certain species of bacteria aid in the metabo-lizing of carbohydrates, while others help break down fats and protein. Some turn on genes that fight inflam-mation; others influence how well the body responds to insulin. Diversity and balance of helpful bacteria species are keys to health. “If changes in the percentages of certain bacteria occur, the microbiome loses its ability to help us maintain a healthy weight,” says Kellman. In one landmark 21st-century study by Univer-sity of Colorado researchers, swapping the gut bacteria of a skinny mouse with that of an obese one made the skinny mouse gain weight. What to do: Go easy on antibiot-

ics, which can wipe out gut bacteria diversity. Load up on fermented foods like kim chi, sauerkraut, ke-

fir and yogurt. Eat lots of inulin-contain-

ing plant fiber to give desir-able bacteria something to

chew on, and consider taking a pro-biotic supplement until

weight loss and health goals are achieved.

Overdoing DietsAs The Biggest Loser contestants learned, losing too much weight too fast can bring metabolism to a

screeching halt; the body, coaxed into starvation mode,

moves to conserve fuel and store fat.

“If you try to lose weight by drastically slashing calorie intake and going crazy on the cardio machines, you’ll do more harm than good,” says Turner. Performing intense cardiovascular exercise such as running, cycling or swimming for more than 45 minutes can make

cortisol levels surge, accelerating muscle loss and impairing the

immune system. That’s counterproduc-tive because muscles burn calories at rest, too. Consistent over-exercise can also prompt the stressed body to respond in a fight-or-flight fashion, storing more belly fat and leading to the “skinny but fat” body composition common among models and marathon runners, she says. Skipping meals can prompt the key thyroid hormone T3 to fall off too, further slowing metabolism. Plus, six weeks into a restrictive weight-loss pro-gram, levels of the feel-good hormones dopamine and serotonin also start to decline, killing motivation and fueling cravings. The result is a weight plateau or even weight gain. What to do: Unless walking, limit workouts to 40 minutes, advises Turner. Instead of slogging away at a steady pace on the treadmill, try intervals (short, high-intensity efforts separated by brief rest periods), which have been shown to boost both fat burning and cardiovascular fitness. For example: five-minute warm-up, one-minute run at fast pace, one-minute run at moderate pace, repeat 10 times, five-minute cool-down. Also, incor-porate strength training into three workouts each week. Include some fat, protein and carbohydrates with every meal. If insist-ing on counting calories, shoot for 450 to 500 per meal and 150 per snack for women; 500 to 600 per meal and 200 to 300 per snack for men. Every week to 10 days, enjoy a carb-loaded “cheat meal” such as pancakes or pasta; it supports any languishing thyroid and feel-good hormones, gives associated neurotransmitters a jump-start and keeps us from feeling deprived.

Dark, Cold, Stressful WorkplacesAlan Hedge, Ph.D., a workplace design researcher with Cornell University, in New York, says women, who tend to have less muscle and body hair to provide natural warmth, are at particu-lar risk of packing on pounds due to an overly cold environment. “When the body is cold, it adapts by laying down insulation, which is fat,” he says. Even without eating extra calories, if we’re constantly cold at work, as 31 percent of


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Natural Slimming SupplementsAshwaghanda root: While research is scarce, this Indian herb is traditionally believed to reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol (which can boost belly fat storage). It’s also believed to boost conversion of the thyroid hormone T4 to the more metabolically active thyroid hormone T3. Doctor of Naturopathy Natasha Turner recommends 500 to 1,000 milligrams (mg) twice daily.

Chromium: This mineral plays a key role in enhancing insulin’s action in the body. Numerous studies by U.S. Department of Agriculture researchers and others suggest that taking chromium supplements can stabilize blood sugar, po-tentially reducing the cravings and energy slumps that come with glucose spikes and dips. Research on chromium’s impact on body composition and weight has been mixed. Turner recommends 200 to 400 micrograms (mcg) daily.

Curcumin: This golden spice, found in turmeric, curbs painful joint infl ammation from over-exercising, and has been shown by Tufts University and Columbia University researchers to improve fat metabolism in mice.

L-carnitine: Helps the body use fat for fuel more effi ciently and also can be used as an energy booster before cardio or strength training. Dr. Pamela Wartian Smith recommends 500 to 1,000 mg daily.

Omega-3 fatty acids: In addition to being potent anti-infl ammatory agents, the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA have been associated with greater weight and fat loss when added to a diet and exercise program, according to studies in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and the International Journal of Obesity.

Prebiotics: These undigested fi bers provide food for good gut bacteria to keep the digestive system and metabolism on track.

Probiotics: These are generally believed to promote healthy gut bacteria so that the body metabolizes food more effi ciently. One recent study in the British Journal of Nutrition followed 125 obese men and women throughout a 12-week diet, followed by a 12-week maintenance period, and found that the women taking probiotics containing the bacterial strain Lactobacillus rhamnosis lost signifi cantly more weight during the diet than women that didn’t; plus, they continued to lose weight during the maintenance period. The men studied did not show similar results.

Selenium: Selenium is critical for the conversion of inactive T4 to active T3 that the body can make use of. Smith recommends 100 to 200 mcg daily.

women are according to a recent Career-Builder survey, we tend to gain about a pound or two per year, says Hedge. Other research, conducted at Northwestern University, in Illinois, shows that workers exposed to more light in the morning weigh about 1.4 pounds less on average than those toiling in windowless cubicles. The suspected reason is that morning light triggers a cascade of hormones that positively impact appetite and metabo-lism. Another study, by Ohio State Uni-versity researchers, found women that experienced a stressful event at work or elsewhere and then ate a fat- and calorie-laden meal the next day burned 100 fewer calories from that meal than non-stressed workers. What to do: At work, move the desk toward a window or at least take a walk every morning. Bring a space heater, extra sweater or hot tea fi xings. After an ultra-stressful workday, eat especially healthfully that night.

Lisa Marshall is a freelance health writer in Boulder, CO. Connect atLisaAnnMarshall.com.

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The latest National Health Interview Survey available, from 2012, shows an annual expenditure of $30.2 billion in out-of-pocket costs for complementary health

approaches, benefiting 33 percent of adults and 12 percent of children, and representing about 10 percent of out-of-pocket U.S. healthcare costs. Insurance rarely covers complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in full. As provider networks shrink, premiums rise and the future of healthcare reform remains uncertain, health-conscious consumers yearn for innovative ways to afford this kind of care.

Membership-Based CareWhen Dr. Chad Krisel worked at an urgent care center, he saw up to 55 patients a day. Since opening Integrative Fam-ily Medicine of Asheville (IntegrativeAsheville.org), in North Carolina, with Dr. Brian Lewis, he averages 12 patients a day. His team provides a membership-based practice in a payment model known as direct primary care (DPC). Endorsed by the American Academy of Family Physi-cians, DPC is broadly accessible. By applying simplicity, sustainability, quality and collaboration, their integrative practice provides comprehensive care for less than what many pay for phone service. “DPC removes traditional financial incentives and conflicts of interest because mem-bership fees fund us. Our only incentive is to help and heal patients,” Krisel explains. Paying for memberships out-of-pocket (often electing high-deductible plans) or via a health-sharing plan, clients

AFFORDABLE Complementary CareAlternatives to Insurance Cost Lessby Meredith Montgomery

healingways value coverage that includes annual wellness exams, phone or virtual appointments and educational classes, plus follow-ups and urgent care at minimal costs. The U.S. mainstream fee-for-service approach, whether paid by insurance or cash, has been criticized for encour-aging unnecessary tests and procedures because doctors are paid for services performed. To maintain income, they typically shorten appointments to increase the number of patients they see. Lewis emphasizes, “Time is the valuable factor in DPC—healthy lifestyle changes, which can prevent or reverse 70 percent of health concerns, cannot be commu-

nicated in 10 minutes.”

Medical Cost-SharingFor generations, Christian communities

have operated health care sharing ministries (HCSM) to collectively share the cost of each

other’s medical bills as an alternative to outside insurance. Members are exempt from current Affordable Healthcare Act (ACA) mandates. Liberty HealthShare, a nonprofit HCSM chartered by the Mennonite church, believes that everyone has the right to practice religion as they see fit. Their members share a commitment to personal health and sharing in the burden of health expenses with others that have these values. “Many in the functional and inte-

grative medical arenas also believe in these principles,” says Tom Blue, of Richmond, Virginia, a director with The Institute for Functional Medicine. “Cost sharing feels very familiar; you present your card to your provider, but there’s no set network of providers, which is favorable for those seeking more pro-gressive forms of care.” Expanding upon this model, Blue worked with the com-pany to create its Liberty Direct program (LibertyDirect.org). Individuals pay an annual membership fee plus a monthly share amount. After fulfilling their annual unshared amount of out-of-pocket expenses (similar to a deductible), partici-pants’ healthcare costs—including approved naturopathic and alternative treatments—can be submitted as expenses to be shared by the group. Liberty Direct provides financial advantages to DPC practitioners and patients by subsidizing membership fees; it favors nutrition over chronic prescription dependence by reimbursing physician-prescribed nutritional supplement and pharmaceutical expenses under the same terms. Members must be in good health with a lifestyle that helps sustain wellness, including good nutrition, exercise and abstinence from tobacco use and drug and alcohol abuse. The program also accepts approximately 7 percent of applicants on provisional terms when pre-existing conditions such as hypertension, obesity and diabetes can be improved through lifestyle changes. They pay an extra fee per month to cover the cost of a health coach; when they achieve their


goals, they become full members paying regular rates. “The economics are staggering,” says Blue, who used to pay $760 a month for insurance with a $12,400 deduct-ible and now pays a monthly share of $449 with a family unshared amount of $1,500. HCSMs are affordable because of restricted overhead budgets. Plus, they appeal to natural-health conscious clients and can decline unsuitable appli-cants. “This concept of communal cost sharing works—Liber-ty’s share amounts decreased in 2013 and have not changed since,” comments Blue.

GreenSurance Told she was past medical hope, Kari Gray, of Kahului, Hawaii, sought to heal from cancer using natural medicine. “When thousands of dollars spent for natural protocols were denied reimbursement by my insurance company, I saw that the system needs to change,” Gray recalls. CAM therapies still deemed “unproven” by traditional insurance companies gave Gray a second chance at life. Following remission, she began a 20-year search for alterna-tive medicine insurance. Finding none, in 2014, she created GreenSurance (MyGreenSurance.com). Serving people that proactively care for their health and prefer natural medicine as primary care, GreenSurance

developed an evidence-based and science-backed list of 40-plus covered CAM modalities, including thermog-raphy, energy therapy, biofeedback, essential oils and homeopathy. It also covers conventional medical and emergency care. Enrollees of the member-owned organization are sup-plied third-party payer information for provider direct billing once the member’s out-of-pocket amount is met. They use any state-licensed provider and the program is often more affordable than traditional insurance. GreenSurance is currently investing resources to broaden consumer access to the tax advantages of a health spending account (HSA). H.R. 1752 would allow enrollees in any healthcare-sharing program to open an HSA. “Simply, we’re a co-op whose members empower us to create an exempt program that protects members from ACA penalties and traditional health insurance,” says Gray. “More, we’re a grassroots movement for change.” Krisel notes, “Doctors too, are livid about the current status of America’s healthcare system. Be vocal about what’s important to you. The more voices heard in Washington, the more change we’ll see.”

Meredith Montgomery publishes Natural Awakenings of Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi (HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com).

Where to Go for Health Care in Charlotte If You’re Uninsured

Health insurance was a hotly contested issue dur-ing the 2016 presidential election. According to a report released last year from the Department

of Health & Human Services, the Affordable Care Act has helped more than 20 million people attain health insurance coverage. As many legislators have prom-ised to repeal this controversial law this year, access to basic health care services may be in jeopardy for many people. Here are three community outreach programs in the area that can help.

Smith Family Wellness CenterFormer Carolina Panthers player Steve Smith and his foundation are behind this newly opened wellness center, which aims to service low-income families in east Charlotte through medical services, dental ser-vices and counseling options. The clinic will initially be open every second Saturday of the month and Wednesdays by appointment, and host free dental clinics every quarter. Smith Family Wellness Center is located at 3622 Central Ave. Visit SmithFamilyWell-nessCenter.com for more information.

CAREingCAREing is a nonprofit that offers three targeted programs for the under- or uninsured: a low-cost clinic that offers treatment of chronic illnesses in addition to other well-ness checks; a home-visitation program for at-risk, first-time mothers; and a network of volunteer health profes-sionals that donate their services for primary and specialty care, lab work and more. CAREing is located at 601 E. Fifth St., Ste. 140. Call 704-375-0172 or visit CAREingNC.com for more information.

Charlotte Community Health ClinicServing the Charlotte area since 2000, the Charlotte Community Health Clinic has two locations in the area serving low-income and uninsured adults and children on a sliding scale. In addition to offering primary, children, chronic disease and women’s care, the nonprofit, which received a federal designation in 2015, was rewarded funds last year to open a new dental practice. Charlotte Community Health Clinic is located at 8401 Medical Plaza Drive, Ste. 300, and 5301 Wilkinson Blvd. Call 704-316-6561 or visit CharlotteCommunityHealthClinic.org for more information.


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“Kettlebells can replace almost all other exercise equipment in providing an all-in-one workout,

combining strength and cardio benefi ts,” explains Shelly Bumpus, an Athletics and Fitness Association of America-cer-tifi ed personal trainer and owner of the Studio Women’s Fitness Center, in Scott, Louisiana. Bumpus often uses kettlebells in strength and conditioning exercise classes to afford a balanced full-body workout that’s fun and engaging. “Consistent kettlebell training imitates and strengthens movements we use to function in daily life,” explains Athena Concannon, an American College of Sports Medicine-certifi ed personal trainer and healthy lifestyle blogger at AchieveWithA-thena.com, in Boston. For example, actions like lifting grocery bags and standing up from a sitting position become easier. She notes that the growing popularity of different kinds of functional training in the past decade has bolstered recognition of kettlebell benefi ts as people seek ways to move away from assisted weight machines toward natural body movements.

Body Sculpt with Kettlebells

Workouts Burn Fat and Tone Muscleby Taylor Geiger

Kettlebells now show up in circuit training, CrossFit and both functional fi t-ness and step classes. People see results because, “It takes multiple small and large muscle groups to redirect movement while maintaining control with a kettlebell, re-quiring more muscle recruitment than with a traditional dumbbell; it’s because its shape provides unbalanced weight resistance that strengthens a multitude of different muscles,” explains Julie Joffrion, owner of All-Inclusive Health, in New Orleans. A kettlebell’s confi guration requires exercisers to pay close attention to main-taining a neutral spinal posture and avoid locking knees and wrists to avoid pain or injury. By starting with a smaller weight and focusing on form fi rst, exercisers build a foundation that allows them to more fully enjoy the benefi ts. Momentum training with kettlebells also compares favorably to traditional dumbbells or weighted bars. “The distinc-tive shape and weight distribution allows for a variety of exercises and grip positions that are not as comfortable and effective or even possible with a dumbbell,” says Joffrion.

Although kettlebells have been popu-lar with Russian athletes since the 1700s, they are a relatively new addition to U.S. fi tness clubs. “I fi rst learned about kettlebell fi tness in 2005 when some gyms were purchasing them. However, because train-ers didn’t yet know how to use or instruct on proper movement of the bells, they sat dormant for awhile. I started using them and fell in love. After a few months, I knew this would be something I’d stick with for a long time,” recalls Lorna Kleid-man, an accomplished kettlebell champion who has earned gold awards in 17 national and international competitions. Now the founder of KettleX, a business focused on making kettlebell fi tness avail-able to everyone through DVDs, private sessions, online coaching and seminars, Kleidman says, “The beauty is that the bells keep you strong and looking great, no mat-ter what your age or fi tness experience. I’ve rarely met a person that didn’t get hooked after working out with the appropriate bells, be it a child or an 80-year-young client. “They are excellent for power, car-diovascular enhancement, endurance and physical symmetry, which is important for the health of the tissues and joints. At the same time, they create a healthful-looking physique, including toned arms, fl at abs and a round, lifted butt.” she adds. Participants completing 20 minutes of a high-intensity kettlebell workout burned an average of 20 calories per minute in a study sponsored by the American Council of Exercise. The researchers compared this level to running a six-minute mile and cred-ited the more intensive calorie burn as a result of challenging the total body, which quickly raises the heart rate when per-formed with speed. The study concluded that kettlebell training is especially ben-efi cial for those that want to fi t in a time-effi cient, total body workout. Proponents go a step further, claiming that kettlebells can deliver increased ben-efi ts in half the time of traditional workouts. Bumpus advises, “If you’re solely interested in building strength and muscle power, stick with free weights, but if you’re look-ing for a way to burn fat while increasing muscular and cardiovascular endurance, kettlebells are a valuable option to incorpo-rate into your training.”

Taylor Geiger is a freelance writer in Phoenix, Arizona. Connect at TaylorGeiger.wordpress.com.

Kettlebell training promotes fat loss, toning of major muscle groups and greater functional strength, while requiring less time than its dumbbell counterpart.


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THE DARK SIDE OF GLUTEN-FREE LIVING

Most People Benefit from Glutenby Judith Fertig

consciouseating

Sales of gluten-free products reached $973 million in 2014 and are projected to grow to $2.34

billion in 2019, according to Packaged Facts, a market research publisher. Many such products cost more than their gluten-based counterparts. Gluten SufferersThe latest study, published in the American Medical Association publi-cation JAMA Internal Medicine, found that the number of Americans with celiac disease remained relatively stable from 2009 through 2014 at about 2.7 million. Meanwhile, mar-keters for gluten-free products report about 40 million consumers. Celiac disease is a serious auto-immune disorder in which ingesting gluten causes issues such as intes-tinal damage, anemia and fatigue. Those afflicted improve when gluten is removed from their diets and their intestinal tracts heal, according to the Center for Celiac Research and Treat-ment at Massachusetts General Hospi-tal, in Boston. Those with a non-celiac gluten sensitivity or wheat allergy also experi-ence a range of symptoms, including bloating, brain fog and joint pain, when

they ingest gluten. According to the Center, as many as 7 percent of Ameri-cans, or 18 million people, fall into this vague category, due to a far less understood immune response distinct from what’s linked to celiac disease.

Gluten BeneficiariesThe many Americans unaffected by gluten may want to avoid gluten-free products, says Dr. Michael Greger, a Washington, D.C., physician special-izing in clinical nutrition. The bestsell-ing author of How Not to Die, Greger founded the educational nonprofit NutritionFacts.org and is a founding fellow of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. “Just because some people have a peanut allergy doesn’t mean everyone should avoid peanuts,” says Greger. “Some evidence suggests that a gluten-free diet may adversely affect gut health in people without celiac disease, gluten sensitivity or wheat allergy.” He cites a small study pub-lished in Gut Microbes which found that a one-month, gluten-free diet may hurt gut flora and immune function, potentially precipitating an overgrowth of harmful intestinal bacteria for those on gluten-free diets.

The gluten components that cause problems for the wheat-sensitive may act as prebiotics and feed good bacteria for the rest of us, says Greger. “Wheat bran contains the impor-tant wheat-based prebiotic arabino-xylan-oligosaccharide,” explains Case Adams, a Morro Bay, California, natu-ropath and author of The Gluten Cure: Scientifically Proven Natural Solutions to Celiac Disease and Gluten Sensitivi-ties. “It feeds the probiotics that pro-duce enzymes which help break down gluten and gliadin proteins.” Researchers from Pennsylvania’s University of Reading conducted mul-tiple studies showing that arabino-xy-lan-oligosaccharide derived from wheat bran increases beneficial bifidobacteria populations in the guts of humans. It is disappointing that a number of highly publicized studies done on celiac patients have been inappropri-ately applied to the general popula-tion, notes Adams. Gluten may also boost immune function. In a study published in the journal Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, researchers found that af-ter less than a week on a diet with added gluten protein, subjects experienced significantly increased natural killer cell activity, which could improve their abil-ity to fight cancer and viral infections. An earlier study in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that high-gluten bread improved triglyceride levels better than regular gluten bread. Plus, Greger says, avoiding glu-ten means missing out on all the fiber, B vitamins, trace minerals and other nutrients from whole grains like wheat, barley and rye. A whole-grain-rich diet has been repeatedly shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, Type 2 diabe-tes, obesity and some forms of cancer in studies from such institutions as the University of Minnesota and Lund University, in Sweden. “Most gluten-free processed foods are not made with nutrient-rich, health-protecting whole grains,” adds Katherine Tallmadge, a Washington, D.C., registered dietitian, nutrition coach and author of Diet Simple. Ingredients such as potato starch and cornstarch with little nutritional value typically help take the place of wheat


fl our. “The gluten-free label has little to do with nutritional value.” French fries and many candies, for example, are naturally gluten-free.

Impact of Self-DiagnosisSelf-diagnosing a gluten issue can delay a doctor’s accurate assessment, cau-tions Greger. “We diagnose celiac by looking for the infl ammation caused by gluten in celiac sufferers. If they haven’t been eating a lot of gluten, we might miss diagnosing the disease. Thus, instead of being on a gluten-free diet, we want celiac suspects to be on a gluten-loaded diet, such as four to six slices of gluten-packed bread daily for at least a month before they come in for a diagnostic exam.” Studies are ongoing and informa-tion continues to evolve regarding the pluses and minuses of a gluten-free diet.

Judith Fertig writes food health articles and cookbooks from Overland Park, KS (JudithFertig.com).

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Peer pressure and body conscious-ness are universal challenges facing teens and their parents. Experts

fi nd that by modeling healthy habits and maintaining open lines of commu-nication, adults can help foster healthy independent thinking and responses to inevitable situations.

Respect Developing CapacitiesSome teen struggles are literally all in their heads, according to Dr. Frances Jensen, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine, in Philadelphia. “The brain is the last organ to mature, and isn’t fully complete until young people reach their late 20s. This allows the brain to adapt to its environment, which can be both good and bad,” says Jensen, author of The Teenage Brain: A Neu-roscientist’s Survival Guide to Raising Adolescents and Young Adults. Compounding the challenge, the frontal lobes, responsible for higher func-

tions like insight, judgment, impulse con-trol and empathy, fully mature last; it’s no coincidence that teens struggle in these areas, according to Jensen. The plasticity of the teenage brain is optimal for learn-ing and adaption, but without the frontal lobe feedback, it’s a challenge for them to moderate the heightened emotions, novelty seeking and sexual impulses adolescents are also experiencing. “We expect teenagers to act ratio-nally, but there are many reasons why their brains aren’t taking them there,” says Jensen. “Acknowledging this can lower frustration levels for everyone.”

Create a Safe HavenTeens learn more from experience than lectures, so parents should facilitate positive experiences and infl uences at home, advises Carla Atherton, director of The Healthy Family Formula, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, which fosters family well-being by holistically addressing root causes of poor health. Such activities can

eer pressure and body conscious- tions like insight, judgment, impulse con-

What Kids Need from Usto Grow Wise

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include regularly preparing meals together and going for family walks, rather than eating dinner in front of the TV. “Doing everything you can to connect with kids while they are in an environment you can control gives them a good foundation they can take into the world,” says Atherton, the mother of three teens. Parents have to give trust to gain kids’ trust stresses educator Naomi Katz, of Galilee, Israel, author of Beautiful: Being an Empowered Young Woman. “Create an environment where kids feel like they don’t have to hide or lie about anything,” Katz says. She also encourages parents to empower adolescents in deci-sion making: Rather than telling them not to try drugs or alcohol “because I said so,” provide them real facts to help them draw their own conclusions.

Support Quiet RespitesIn today’s hyper-connected world, Katz observes, “Social dynamics can get re-ally confusing and painful and impact kids in far-reaching ways. We used to come home from school and be away from those issues until the next day;

now that break doesn’t come because of social media and smartphones.” Katz recommends encouraging journaling or other forms of self-expression to help teens unplug and refl ect. Breathing exercises can help calm nerves and allow them to think more clearly in tough social situations before they react. Katz also suggests teens set aside time each week for a feel-good activity like playing sports or music, to give them a reliable source of pleasure and accomplishment, no matter what else is going on in their lives.

Stay Alert to SignsDespite a parent’s best efforts, kids can and will make unhealthy choices, and parents need to be prepared to manage the consequences. If a child is suspected or found to be engaging in dangerous or addictive behaviors like self-harming or an eating disorder, it’s important to address these immediately, seeking pro-fessional help if needed, counsels Katz. Jensen remarks that it’s easier to learn unhealthy patterns when the brain is malleable, and addictive behaviors are harder to eliminate than if they are acquired as an adult.

The signs of unhealthy behaviors can be subtle, so it’s important to recognize cues without making fl ash judgments or placing blame, says Atherton, For exam-ple, a parent that notices her teen eating differently or obsessed with working out should consider initiating a conversation with him or her about body image. Talking to teens about images in the media can help them gain a more balanced and positive self-perspective. “You can tell your kids, ‘These advertis-ing images are trying to sell you some-one’s idea of a perfect look, but it’s not reality,’” says Atherton. For whatever issues teens are trying to cope with, parents need to cultivate their own sense of inner calm; to be the rock that they can cling to. “Car-ing adults need to give teens a periodic frontal lobe assist,” says Jensen. “It helps when we share more details and insights about how we organize our lives and make decisions. Modeling the rational-ity and empathy that teenagers may lack can be an effective counterbalance.”

Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

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Many pet owners have chosen func-tional medicine for their own care, so they logically turn to it for their

four-legged family members, as well. Most veterinarians are still unfamiliar with this approach to pet health care and may even discourage its use because they see it as be-ing out of synch with conventional ideology. Functional medicine addresses the underlying causes of disease, using a systems-oriented approach and engag-ing patients and doctors in a partnership designed to improve health. This evolved practice better addresses individual needs than a traditional approach that focuses on illness and treating disease rather than restoring overall health. By shifting from an allopathic platform to a more holistic, patient-centered one, functional medicine addresses the whole pet, not just a set of symptoms.

Why Functional MedicineThe system of medicine practiced by most vets is geared toward acute care of a severe trauma or a climax in illness that necessi-tates urgent diagnosis and treatment. They typically apply specifi c, prescribed treatments such as drugs or perform surgery to treat the immediate problem or symptom. This approach works well for pets experiencing a crisis, but isn’t appropriate for restoring health when animals have chronic dis-

orders. It also doesn’t help them to at least live comfortably with incurable problems without the side effects often caused by extensive administration of medications. Conventional veterinary science lacks the proper tools for preventing and treating complex, chronic disease. In most cases, it doesn’t take into account an individual’s unique genetic makeup or exposure to toxins such as too many vaccines, drugs or environmental chemicals. Functional medicine always focuses on the unique nature of the patient; there is no “one treatment fi ts all” mentality. Func-tional medicine vets are specifi cally trained to assess the underlying causes of complex, chronic disease and to apply strategies such as nutrition, diet and naturopathic remedies to both treat and prevent these illnesses. They can ably help the increasing number of pets suffering from complex, chronic health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, allergies, arthritis, seizures, bowel and bladder problems and immune system disorders. Functional medicine best addresses these concerns because it involves

understanding the origins, preven-tion and treatment of ailments and emphasizes customized care. The

goal is to promote health as a posi-tive force well beyond the absence of disease.

Functional Medicine for Pets

Why the Best Vets Use Itby Shawn Messonnier

naturalpet It’s possible for many pets to appear to be healthy while specialized, noninvasive testing shows underlying issues that must be addressed if illness is to be prevented. Conventional medicine either doesn’t offer such testing or ignores minor abnormalities, placing the pet at risk for developing serious and potentially irreversible problems.

Integrative ApproachAn integrative, science-based healthcare approach considers interactions in the pet’s history, physiology and lifestyle that might lead to problems. All of the diagnostic and treatment modalities are based upon proven scientifi c principles and follow evidence-based medicine to yield the best results in terms of total function. Functional medicine integrates traditional Western medical practices with what are sometimes considered “holistic” or “complementary” healing methods. The focus is on prevention through nutrition, diet and exercise; use of the latest laborato-ry testing and other diagnostic techniques; and prescribed combinations of botanical medicines, supplements, therapeutic diets and detoxifi cation programs, using drugs only when necessary as a last, rather than a fi rst, resort. This whole-pet approach allows doctors to choose whichever therapies are best for each patient. Holistic vets see many patients for which conventional medicine has proven ineffective. Sometimes conventional doc-tors back away from offering treatment, either because the pet is “too old,” the treatment is “too expensive” or the results are unlikely to be “satisfac-tory.” Functional medicine can help many of these so-called hopeless cases, return pets to health and often heal disease after principles of functional medicine have been consistently applied to the pet’s everyday lifestyle. Finding a functional medicine vet is challenging, but worth the effort. Focusing on the individual needs of a pet ensures the optimum chance for achieving and sustain-ing proper health.

Shawn Messonnier, a doctor of veterinary medicine practicing in Plano, TX, is the au-thor of The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats and Unexpected Miracles: Hope and Holistic Healing for Pets. For more information, visit PetCareNaturally.com.


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Your Event Here25-word descripion

Date • Time Location | Contact Info

$35

[email protected]

markyourcalendar

calendarofeventsNOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 12th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email [email protected] for guidelines and to submit entries. No phone calls or faxes, please. Or to submit online, visit AwakeningCharlotte.com.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1Queen City Center for Spiritual Living – 10:30am. An open-minded spiritual community that has a totally positive and practical philosophy of life. We celebrate the mysticism of faith combined with the clarity of universal principle. We invite you to awaken to your spiritual magnificence. The Double Tree Hotel, 6300 Morrison Blvd, Charlotte. 704-643-4970. QueenCityCSL.com

Burning Bowl Ceremony – 10:30am. Bring in the New Year at our annual burning bowl ceremony, which we be celebrating on New Year’s Day, as we release that which no longer serves us and open to Spirit to receive our 2017 ‘spiritual action plan’ through a visioning meditation. Please bring a self-addressed, stamped envelope and New Year’s treats to share. Spiritual Light Center of Charlotte, 7300 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte. 704-599-1180. [email protected]. SLCofCharlotte.org

THURSDAY, JANUARY 5Intro to Yoga 6-week series – 7-8:30pm. Learn ba-sic poses, breathing techniques, and theory for your yoga practice. Chelisa Alavedra, facilitator. $125; early bird $110. Okra Yoga, 1912 Commonwealth Ave, Charlotte. 704-266-1443. OkraCharlotte.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 7Chi Running/Walking – 9:30-11am. Learn how to use natural forces to run/walk more effortlessly and injury free. $40. Okra Yoga, 1912 Commonwealth Ave, Charlotte. 704-266-1443. OkraCharlotte.com

Councils of Light Connection: Ancient Ones – 11am-3:30pm. Connect with the Ancient Ones as they call forth the elemental wisdom, through celebration, deep within Earth and within you. $44 or $66 for 2 people. Location: private residence given upon RSVP. More info/RSVP: meetup.com/The-Councils-of-Light

REFRESH 2017 Wellness Expo: Empowered Living – 11am-5pm. Your genes are your destiny! Harness your power for better health with the practitioners at Elemental Healing Charlotte and

special guests. Demos, prizes, giveaways. Free. Elemental Healing Charlotte, 5200 Park Rd, 2nd floor, Charlotte. [email protected]. ElementalHealingCharlotte.com.

Mystical Shamanic Evolution – 1-2:30pm. Bridg-ing ancient reality with the human experience; a fusion of mysteries and magic with P.E. Calvert. $35. The Kent-Cook Institute, 400 N Harbor Place, Ste C, Davidson. 704-896-3111. Meetup.com/TheNook/events

SUNDAY, JANUARY 8Ayurvedic Detox Practices – 1-3:30pm. Live an organic lifestyle in a toxic world. Learn practices to rejuvenate the sense organs, the skin, breasts, brain and mind, and learn how to rebalance after travel. $35. HarmonyYoga.com 704-277-3887

Reiki Practitioner Gathering – 2pm. A time for Reiki practitioners to receive support through group treatments, sharing of ideas, and plan for the role of light workers for peace. All level Reiki practitioners are welcome. Also offered Jan 22. Love offering. Unity of Charlotte, 401 E Arrowood Rd, Charlotte. 704-523-0062. UnityofCharlotte.org

Greater Charlotte Reiki Professionals Network – 7-8pm. Join a dynamic group and begin to build your Reiki support network. All Reiki professionals level II or higher are welcome. Love donations accepted. Elemental Healing Charlotte, 5200 Park Rd, Ste 200C, Charlotte. 301-788-4525. [email protected]. ElementalHealingCharlotte.com/events/2017

TUESDAY, JANUARY 10Holistic Health Network Meeting – 6:45pm. Michael Grant White, Charlotte Holistic Health Coach, owner of Breathing.com, Certified Licensed Massage and Body Work Therapist and Speaking, Singing and Holistic Coach will explain that much dysfunctional breathing is a learning problem and will help us learn about Optimal Breathing tech-niques. St Gabriel’s Health Ministry Center, 3016 Providence Rd, Charlotte (entrance off Providence Rd near Sharon Amity Rd, free parking in front of center). Details: Belle Radenbaugh, 704-575-1153. NCHolisticNetwork.com

Fix Your Foundation – 7pm. Dr. Michael Smith has discovered the missing link to most health challenges. The current “health” care system uses band-aids to mask your symptoms. Learn how to Fix Your Foundation and get your health back. Also offered Jan 17 at 6pm, Jan 24 & 31 at 7pm. Free. Reservation required: 704-708-4404. Carolinas Natural Health Center, 1114 Sam Newell Rd, Ste A, Matthews. CarolinasNaturalHealth.com

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11Mindful Eating for Lasting Weight Loss – 12-1pm. Explore intuitive eating vs. dieting. Curb cravings and achieve a healthy, sustainable weight. Detox naturally and safely. Hosted by Rhya Pachin, Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist. Free. Integra Well-

ness Center, 1040 Edgewater Corporate Parkway, Indian Land, SC – just 3 miles south of Ballantyne. 704-360-8889. IntegraWellnessCenter.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 12Full Moon Shamanic Journey – 7:30pm. A special level of consciousness to work with intuitive and spiritual guidance for healing, obtaining informa-tion and working through personal issues. $20. HarmonyYoga.com. 704-277-3887

FRIDAY, JANUARY 13Twisted Kids Yoga and Mindfulness Teacher Training Foundation – Jan 13-16. With Mary Beah and Shona. Class time and prices online. Learn the foundations of teaching yoga to children. Okra Yoga, 1912 Commonwealth Ave, Charlotte. 704-266-1443. OkraCharlotte.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 14 Wellness Revolution – 8am-12pm. Health and wellness event spotlighting Jiu-Jitsu, Yoga, Boot Camp, Massage and health vendors. Free. Club Fitness, 11108 S Tryon Blvd, Charlotte. More info: [email protected] or 770-893-7997. SynergyYogaWellness.com

Sacred Healing Event with June Hamilton – 1-3pm. Many problems you have today might be an ancestor’s unresolved issues passed down energetically. In this sacred ceremonial ritual, you will experience an intense healing process. $20. The Kent-Cook Institute, 400 N Harbor Place, Ste C, Davidson. 704-896-3111. Meetup.com/TheNook/events

SoulCollage – 1:30-4:30pm. A creative and light-hearted collage process with Margaret Wyche that allows one to explore their life, inner wisdom and intuition. $45 includes supplies. Elemental Healing Charlotte, 5200 Park Rd, Ste 200C, Creative Arts Studio, Charlotte. 704-807-3635. [email protected]. ElementalHealingCharlotte.com

Triggerpoint Workshop – 1:45-3pm. Utilizing the Triggerpoint deep tissue therapy products, help relieve soreness and tension throughout the body. Hal Smith facilitator. $10. Okra Yoga, 1912 Commonwealth Ave, Charlotte. 704-266-1443. OkraCharlotte.com

TUESDAY, JANUARY 17Guided Shamanic Meditation – 7:15-8:45pm. Robbie Warren will work to bring clarity and wisdom through this lead meditation. $30. Okra Yoga, 1912 Commonwealth Ave, Charlotte. 704-266-1443. OkraCharlotte.com

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 18Is There a Battery in your Mouth? Oral Galva-nism – 6-7pm. Registration required – space limited. Free. Kempter Family Dentistry. 704-782-0797. [email protected]. KempterDentistry.com


Guided Shamanic Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Robbie Warren helps you focus on answers and informa-tion you need to propel you forward in life. Please bring an item for the altar and a pillow/blanket to lie comfortably on the floor. $30. Lotus Living Arts Studio, 52 Union St, Ste 3, Concord. [email protected]

THURSDAY, JANUARY 19Introduction to the Seth Materials – 1:30-3pm. Join us for this introduction to Seth Speaks. Learn about the many facets of life thought and energies, through his wisdom. $20. The Kent-Cook Institute, 400 N Harbor Place, Ste C, Davidson. 704-896-3111. Meetup.com/TheNook/events

FRIDAY, JANUARY 20The Daring Way™ 3-Day Workshop – Fri 5-9pm; 9am-5pm Sat; 9am-2pm Sun. The Daring Way™ is a highly experiential methodology based on the research of Dr Brene Brown. It was developed to help us learn how to show up, be seen and live braver lives. $425. Register: LillieMarshall.comConcert with Amy Steinberg – 7-9:30pm. Join Amy for an evening of music, laughter and in-spiration. Suggested love offering $15. Spiritual Light Center of Charlotte, 7300 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte. 704-599-1180. [email protected]. SLCofCharlotte.org

SATURDAY, JANUARY 21Traditional Usui Reiki Master Class Level III – 8am-6pm. Having completed levels I & II of this universal, divine energy healing technique, study with Carolyn Sheehan to receive Master level at-tunements. $395. The Kent-Cook Institute, 400 N Harbor Place, Ste C, Davidson. 704-896-3111. Meetup.com/TheNook/eventsChakra Balancing Workshop – 9am-1pm. Gain a greater understanding of your energetic anatomy, as well as how to use a valuable tool to enhance your intuition. Pendulums, gemstones and essential oils will be utilized in the forma-tion of your own personal energy-balancing plan. Guided meditation recording included for con-tinued practice. No experience necessary. $59. A Reiki Life Academy. 704-996-4079. Details/register: AReikiLife.comMindful Eating for Lasting Weight Loss – 9:30-10:30am. Explore intuitive eating vs. dieting. Curb cravings and achieve a healthy, sustainable weight. Detox naturally and safely.

Hosted by Rhya Pachin, Licensed Dietitian Nu-tritionist. Free. Integra Wellness Center, 1040 Edgewater Corporate Parkway, Indian Land, SC – just 3 miles south of Ballantyne. 704-360-8889. IntegraWellnessCenter.com

SOULO Entrepreneur Introductory Workshop – 2-4pm. The world needs your gifts and your help. If you want to start or grow your holistic or alternative business but find that traditional models don’t fit, this workshop is for you. Facilitated by Dr Jeannie Fennell of LIFEWORKS. $45, early bird $35 before 1/14. Unity Church, 401 E Arrowood Rd, Charlotte. [email protected]. 704-342-1144. Life-WorksOnline.net

SUNDAY, JANUARY 22Astrological and Intuitive Predictions for 2017 with Karmic Astrologer Susan Reynolds – 1pm. Susan will offer her astrological and intuitive predictions for the upcoming year, discussing the political front as well as geographical and economic happenings. And of course she always touches upon celebrity and entertainment news as well as each astrological sign and what the year ahead holds for them. Love offering. Spiritual Light Center of Char-lotte, 7300 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte. 704-599-1180. [email protected]. SLCofCharlotte.org

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24The Daring Way™ 8 Week Workshop – Jan 24-Mar 14; 6-8pm. The Daring Way™ is a highly experiential methodology based on the research of Dr Brene Brown. It was developed to help us learn how to show up, be seen and live braver lives. $325. Register: LillieMarshall.com

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25Mindful Eating for Lasting Weight Loss – 12-1pm. Explore intuitive eating vs. dieting. Curb cravings and achieve a healthy, sustainable weight. Detox naturally and safely. Hosted by Rhya Pachin, Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist. Free. Integra Well-ness Center, 1040 Edgewater Corporate Parkway, Indian Land, SC – just 3 miles south of Ballantyne. 704-360-8889. IntegraWellnessCenter.com

Sierra Club Central Piedmont Chapter Meeting – 7pm. Methane gas – the second largest greenhouse gas contributing to climate change. Check website for details. 6:30pm pizza. Free and open to the public. Mahlon Adams Pavilion, Freedom Park, 2435 Cumberland Ave, Charlotte. [email protected]. CharlotteSierraClub.org

FRIDAY, JANUARY 27Animal Communication Class – 6-8:30pm. This class will help individuals understand what Ani-mals Communications is and how it works. Learn exercises designed to open you up to your Animal Communication abilities. $80. Elemental Healing Charlotte, 5200 Park Rd, Ste 200C, Charlotte. [email protected]. TinaMarie8.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 28Got Your Back, Yoga Therapy for Nurturing the Lower Spine, Hips and Knees – 9:30am-12pm. Explore sensible, accessible movements for gentle maintenance and therapeutic applications for the lower back. Presented by Sybil Nance, IAYT & Jeffrey Shoaf E-RYT 500, LMBT. CEs available for yoga teachers through Yoga Alliance. $65. Early bird saving $10 by Jan 15. Register: 704-927-0774. The Cornwell Center, 2001 Selwyn Ave, Charlotte. CornwellCenter.orgHolistic Living – The Key to Happiness – 9:30am-5:30pm. Master Marilag Mendoza will guide you to achieve a balanced and happy life. The key to happiness is within your reach. $97 (bring a friend for free). Unity of Charlotte, 401 E Arrowood Rd, Charlotte. 704-523-0062. UnityofCharlotte.org. Register: PranicHealingWellness.com/eventsA Day of Healing with Elder Nella Silverspear – 10am-3pm. Shamanic Healing sessions tailored to the individual. Call today to reserve your space. $30. The Kent-Cook Institute, 400 N Harbor Place, Ste C, Davidson. 704-896-3111. Meetup.com/TheNook/eventsAroma Yoga – 1:45-3:15pm. Discover techniques will help you restore clarity, certainty, direction and purpose for the coming New Year. $20; early bird $15. Okra Yoga, 1912 Commonwealth Ave, Char-lotte. 704-266-1443. OkraCharlotte.com

SUNDAY, JANUARY 29Sacred Stone Meditation and Sound Healing Journey – 12:30-2pm. A guided meditation and sound healing journey with the sacred quartz crystal. Be Yoga South, 7510 Pineville-Matthews Rd, #1A, Charlotte. BeYogaSouth.com

plan aheadTHURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2Foundations of Ayurveda – 6:45pm. Lecture and dinner. Get in balance naturally with this 4-week series covering nutritional and lifestyle practices, yoga, pranayama and meditation from the world’s oldest healthcare system. Integra Wellness Center in Indian Land, SC. Info: IntegraWellnessCenter.com. 704-277-3887

SATURDAY, FEBURARY 4Reiki First Degree Training – This 3-month (32 hour) program can be a powerful means of personal transformation. It will prepare you for a personal self-practice to support healing and growth; and give you the skills and practical experience to offer treatment to family, friends, pets and plant life. 26 CE hours (NCBTMB). $450 early bird special. A Reiki Life Academy. 704-996-4079. Details/Regis-ter: AReikiLife.com


ongoingeventsNOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 12th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email [email protected] for guidelines and to submit entries. No phone calls or faxes, please. Or to submit online, visit AwakeningCharlotte.com.

sundaySpiritual Light Center of Charlotte - 10:30am. Rev. Rebecca Nagy, spiritual leader. A non-denom-inational spiritual community, grounded in the Universal Truth Teachings of New Thought and Ageless Wisdom. Services followed by Master Mind and Fellowship. Spiritual Light Center of Charlotte, 7300 Mallard Creek Rd. 704-599-1180. SLCofChar-lotte.orgUnity of Charlotte Sunday Celebration Service – 10:30am. Spirit-led and Heart-driven describes this welcoming spiritual community that offers spiritual enrichment classes throughout the week and a vibrant Sunday Celebration Service with ter-rific music and inspiring messages. Youth Program ages 4+ avail. Unity of Charlotte, 401 E Arrowood Rd, Charlotte. 704-523-0062. UnityofCharlotte.orgQigong Sunday – 1-2pm. The most advanced mov-ing meditation class in Charlotte. Three Traditions combined for Health, Confidence and Great Qigong Energy! $20/class or $40/month. Elemental Healing Charlotte, 5200 Park Rd, Charlotte. ElementalHeal-ingCharlotte.com. 980-800-7043. [email protected]. CharlotteReflexology.comUnity Spiritual Center –6pm. Casual service: positive music, quieting meditation and inspiring metaphysical talk. We are a spiritual community (not a religion) grounded in Unity Metaphysics, A Course in Miracles and related Eastern Teachings. Myers Park (not your ordinary) Baptist Church, 1900 Queens Rd, Room 253, Charlotte. 704-619-9029. CharlotteSpiritualCenter.org

mondayOneness Blessing – 7pm. 1st and 3rd Mon. Non-denominational experience that transfers physical energy, awakening our connection with the oneness in everything, allowing each of us to deepen our re-lationship with others and our creator. Love offering. Unity of Charlotte, 401 E. Arrowood Rd, Charlotte. 704-523-0062, UnityOfCharlotte.org.A Course in Miracles – 7pm. Ongoing study and discussion of ACIM. Jim & Kay Fuller have been facilitating ACIM studies for over 25 years. Straw-berry Hill Apts, Providence Rd, Charlotte. 704-619-9029. CharlotteSpiritualCenter.orgImprov Fundamentals Level 1 – 7-10pm. Not just for aspiring comedians, improv is also a great tool for self-discovery and gaining confidence. Course is designed to introduce students to the fundamen-tals of improvisation. $200. Elemental Healing Charlotte, 5200 Park Rd, Ste 207B, Charlotte. ElementalHealingCharlotte.com. [email protected]. KevinShimko.com

Therapeutic Yoga for Deep Relaxation – 7-8:30pm. Breathing techniques, gentle poses and meditation to peacefully bring you into the present moment. All levels, beginners welcome. $13. First class free. Integra Wellness Center, 1040 Edgewater Corporate Parkway, Indian Land, SC. 704-277-3887 or HarmonyYogaNC.com.

tuesdayGentle Restorative Yoga – 9:30-11am. Release muscular and mental tension with flowing poses and breath, as well as restorative postures using props for deep joint opening. HarmonyYogaNC.com.Weekly Daytime Meditation – 12-1pm. Brief instruction period, 30-minute silent meditation, and a short period of questions and answers. Donation. Park Rd Baptist Church, Milford Chapel, 3900 Park Rd, Charlotte. 704-995-4860. IMCCharlotte.orgTuesday Afternoon Meditation Hour at SLLC - 2pm. Whether you are a beginner or seasoned meditator, join us for an hour of calm, peace and inspiration. All welcome. Love offering. Spiritual Light Center of Charlotte, 7300 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte. 704-599-1180. [email protected] Yoga Basics – 5:45pm, Jan 10-Feb 14. New to yoga? Not sure it’s for you? Come join us and see what it’s all about. $69/6 weeks. Synergy Yoga, 111 Caldwell St, #101, Rock Hill, SC. Reg-ister: 803-366-9642 or SynergyYogaWellness.com

Kundalini YogaEach week for 7 weeks, a new chakra will be explored by using Kundalini

Yoga and specific Kriya that will balance and work on healing that energy center,

by using chanting, use of ‘bandhs’ (energy locks), specific breath work, mudras (hand gestures that cause a

physiological response), and deliberate asana (physical poses). You will leave

feeling healthy, happy and holy!

Jan 10-Feb 21 · 6-7:15pm $95 or $15/class drop-in The Meditation Room,

19900 S Main St, Cornelius307-690-4594

TheMeditationRoom.org

markyourcalendar

Good Vibration – 2:30-4pm. Karen Head Ulm presents an afternoon meditation with singing bowls and gongs. Experience relaxation and transformation as the bowls and gongs allow you to reach a deeper and higher level of consciousness. Unity of Charlotte, 401 E Arrowood Rd, Charlotte. 704-523-0062. UnityofCharlotte.org

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 12Bone Broth Tasting Menu and Talk – 5-7pm or until the bowls are empty. Chef Clark teams up with Wish We Had Acres to host a Bone Broth Class. Nothing goes to waste in Heirloom’s kitchen especially the delicious bones. This class includes a five-course broth tasting menu with wine and beer pairings available for an additional $25. Dr Dave shares the nutritional health benefits to the age-old tradition. $35. Heirloom Restaurant, 8470 Bellhaven Blvd, Charlotte. WishWeHadAcres.com

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15What Dental Products are Safe? – 6-7pm. Reg-istration required – space limited. Free. Kempter Family Dentistry. 704-782-0797. [email protected]. KempterDentistry.com

SATURDAY, MARCH 4

Readings at Psychic Fascination Fair

Calvert does shamanic energy readings with the Medicine Hat Moment cards

she developed. Laura of Indigo Healing Heart offers oracle card readings with an

energy attunement.

March 4 · 10am-4pmHilton Garden Inn, 1920 Ayrsley Town Blvd,

Charlotte. P.E. Calvert [email protected] or

Laura McFern [email protected]

markyourcalendar

Psychic Fascination FairProminent mediums, psychics, intuitive

channeled readers, along with meta-physical vendors. Come out and have a reading while doing some holiday

shopping.

March 4 · 10am-4pmHilton Garden Inn, 1920 Ayrsley Town Blvd,

CharlotteCalvert 704-453-9464 or Laura 704-661-6974

markyourcalendar


Essentrics – 7-8pm. Full body workouts, with Suuz Martines, designed by ballet dancer Miranda Esmonde-White to thin your waist & legs, tone abs, and transform your posture for a painless body. Ideal for young, old, injured or fit. $10. First class free. Integra Wellness Center, 1040 Edgewater Corporate Pkwy, Indian Land, SC. 704-360-8889. IntegraWellnessCenter.comCreative Expression Workshop – 7-8:30pm, Jan 10-Feb 28. An exciting 8-week class with national touring artist, Amy Steinberg, exploring musical performance from a spiritual standpoint. The class culminates in a performance on March 17 where everyone will sing a group piece and express their divine selves with a solo if they choose with Amy. $25/class ($200) or $160 paid in full. Spiritual Light Center of Charlotte, 7300 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte. 704-599-1180. [email protected]. SLCofCharlotte.orgTarot 8 Week Series – 7-9pm, Jan 10-Feb 28. Introduction of the traditional Tarot with Heather Gaffney Darnell. $20 love offering each class. Spiri-tual Light Center of Charlotte, 7300 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte. 704-599-1180. [email protected]. SLCofCharlotte.orgProsperity Class – 7pm. These on-going classes set the stage for individuals to be exposed to the influence of prosperity philosophy. In doing so, one may be sparked with ideas that have the power to create a life of harmony, peace, understanding and abundance. Current book: Ask and it is Given by Esther & Jerry Hicks. Love offering. Unity of Charlotte, 401 E Arrowood Rd, Charlotte. 704-523-0062. UnityofCharlotte.orgGroup Fitness Class – 7:15pm. Small group class-Core, Yogalates, Spin, Barre, Athletic Conditioning. InnergyWorks, 5200 Park Rd, Ste 124. Register: 704-516-2586

wednesdayThe School of Spirituality – 10:30am-noon. On-going class with discussion on spiritual topics rel-evant to our changing world and search for deeper meaning. All welcome. Love offering. Unity of Charlotte, 401 E Arrowood Rd, Charlotte. 704-523-0062. UnityofCharlotte.orgGroup Fitness Class – noon. Small group class-Core, Yogalates, Spin, Barre, Athletic Conditioning. InnergyWorks, 5200 Park Rd, Ste 124. Register: 704-516-2586Beginners Yoga Basics – 5:30pm, Jan 11-Feb 15. New to yoga? Not sure it’s for you? Come join us and see what it’s all about. $69/6 weeks. Synergy Yoga, 111 Caldwell St, #101, Rock Hill, SC. Reg-ister: 803-366-9642 or SynergyYogaWellness.comTherapeutic Yoga for Deep Relaxation – 7-8:30pm. Breathing techniques, gentle poses and meditation to peacefully bring you into the present moment. All levels, beginners welcome. $13. First class free. Integra Wellness Center, 1040 Edgewater Corporate Parkway, Indian Land, SC. 704-277-3887 or HarmonyYogaNC.com.Wisdom Wednesdays – 7-8:30pm beginning Jan 11. Book Study: A Planetary Awakening by Kathy Newburn. An ongoing course of study that will cover such topics as: What exactly are the ageless

wisdom teachings? Who are the Ascended Masters? What are the Seven Rays? And much more. Love offering. Spiritual Light Center of Charlotte, 7300 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte. 704-599-1180. [email protected]. SLCofCharlotte.orgUnity Spiritual Center – 7pm. Meditation and discussion of contemporary metaphysical teach-ings. We are a spiritual community (not a religion) grounded in Unity Metaphysics, A Course in Miracles and related Eastern Teachings. Strawberry Hill Apts, Providence Rd, Charlotte. 704-619-9029. CharlotteSpiritualCenter.orgWeekly Wednesday Meditation – 7-9pm. Practice instructions for those new to meditation at 7pm. Silent mindfulness meditation at 7:30pm, followed by dharma talk and discussion. Donation. Park Rd Baptist Church, Milford Chapel, 3900 Park Rd, Charlotte. IMCCharlotte.org

thursday

A Course in Miracles - 9:30am. A transformative ongoing study group open to all. Where philosophy, psychology, and religion end, A Course in Miracles begins. Freewill offering. Unity of Charlotte, 401 E. Arrowood Road, Charlotte. 704-523-0062, Uni-tyOfCharlotte.org.Relieve Stress, Live a Healthier Life with Qigong – 10am. Learn choreographed movement sequences to address health concerns of all kinds and empower yourself to become well naturally. Develop tech-niques to release the stress and tension of life that can so easily get stuck inside and cultivate a peace-ful energy that will aid in personal development. $10. Integra Wellness, 1040 Edgewater Corporate Parkway, Indian Land, SC. 704-560-7131. [email protected] Exercise – 10-11am. Curb body aches and stiffness with gentle, rhythmic movements to increase range of motion and joint mobility. Improve balance with safe, effective techniques to diminish falls and develop stability, confidence and ease when performing everyday tasks. $10. First class free. Integra Wellness Center, 1040 Edgewater Corporate Pkwy, Indian Land, SC. 704-360-8889. IntegraWellnessCenter.com

Beginners Meditation – 5:45pm, Jan 12-Mar 2. Learn how to meditate. $39/4 weeks or $69/8 weeks. Synergy Yoga, 111 Caldwell St, #101, Rock Hill, SC. Register: 803-366-9642 or SynergyYogaWell-ness.comMindfulness with Monica – 6:15-7:45pm. Find peace by minding your own mind. Stop the ‘planning and doing’, to simply ‘be’ in a safe space, peaceful place with certified meditation teacher, Monica Mitchell-Giraudo. Love donation $5-15. Integra Wellness Center, 1040 Edgewater Corporate Pkwy, Indian Land, SC. 704-360-8889. IntegraWellness-Center.comGroup Fitness Class – 7:15pm. Small group class-Core, Yogalates, Spin, Barre, Athletic Conditioning. InnergyWorks, 5200 Park Rd, Ste 124. Register: 704-516-2586Free Me from Sugar 6-Week Sugar Detox – 7:30pm, Jan 19-Feb 23. Let us help you make your resolutions come true. We support you with live calls, educational handouts, recipes, meal sugges-tions and private Facebook engagement. Take the ‘all-in’ approach or a more gradual step-in approach. Our clients report better sleep, improved mental clarity, fewer aches and pains and weight loss after attending the program. $159. 704-492-5416. [email protected]. NamasteGreen.com. FreeMeFromSugar.com

saturdayIntegrative Yoga for Deep Relaxation – 8:30 & 10:15am. Breathing techniques, gentle poses. aro-matherapy, massage and meditation to peacefully bring you into the present moment. 704-277-3887 or HarmonyYogaNC.com.Group Fitness Class – 11:15am. Small group class-Core, Yogalates, Spin, Barre, Athletic Conditioning. InnergyWorks, 5200 Park Rd, Ste 124. Register: 704-516-2586


Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email [email protected] to request our media kit.

communityresourceguide

ACUPUNCTURE

EMPOWER LIFE CENTERCamilo Sanchez, LAc, MOM, MQG704-542-8088EmpowerLifeCenter.com

With 24 years of clinical and teaching experience in acupuncture and Chinese medicine, Camilo’s expertise is to identify the root cause of your health concerns. Specializing in the treatment of pain conditions, women’s health, digestive disorders, sports injuries, stress and chronic diseases. Camilo

also teaches authentic Chen Tai Chi, Qigong and Taoist yoga.

GREEN CROSS ACUPUNCTUREDr Eddie Choi, LAc, OMD6404 Carmel Rd, Ste 202, Charlotte, 704-222-0740GCAcupuncture.com

Off ering Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, Japanese style needle skills and alternative health services to provide the highest standard of health enhancement. See ad, page 21.

TWO TREES ACUPUNCTUREPaula Kearney, L.Ac. & David Bonilla, L.Ac.1318-A3 Central Ave, Plaza Midwood704-770-1318TwoTreesAcupuncture.com

Providing private and com-munity acupuncture services, herbal medicine, bodywork sessions, classes and more to the city of Charlotte. See ad, page 8.

ANIMAL COMMUNICATORALANNAH JOY RCT, CLTStarlight Productions704-964-3980Alannahjoy.com

With 30 years experience and a traditional medical and holistic background, Alannah helps you understand your pets better. High-ly intuitive to identify root cause. Reiki Master and Minister com-bining healing and prayer for ef-fective results.

ASTROLOGY

SOUL OF CHIRONDorothy Taylor, CHCharlotte 919-889-0457 • [email protected]

Sharing intuitive and insightful awareness for healing, direc-tion and success in life for over 12 years. Discover gifts and overcome challenges reaching your full potential and happi-ness. Certified Consulting Hypnotist, Astrologer and Life Coach.

AYURVEDA

INTEGRA WELLNESS CENTERAyurvedic Wellness PractitionerLisa Moore, AWP, E-RYT 500704-360-8889 · IntegraWellnessCenter.com

Holistic education/support on food and lifestyle practices that uses a constitutional model based on elemental make-up. Enhance digestion, detoxify, reduce stress and i n c r e a s e m i n d / b o d y connection for health and vitality. See ad, page 6.

COLONICS

HC WELLNESS CENTER & SPA1308 E Garrison Blvd, Gastonia704-823-1577HCWellnessCenterAndSpa.com

Our principle service is Colon Hydrotherapy, but we also off er a wide variety of other services. We offer both t radi t ional and alternative therapies to assist clients in achieving optimal health, wellness and balance.

DENTISTRY

KEMPTER FAMILY DENTISTRYJohn Kempter, DDS1000 Copperfield Blvd, Ste 160, Concord704-782-0797KempterDentistry.com

Biologically minded family dental offi ce off ering 3D digital dentistry, preventative dentistry, safe mercury removal and sleep apnea screenings. In a relaxed and caring environment, all patients are given devoted time. Call the offi ce today to request a new patient consultation. See ad, page 21.

classifieds

600 SQ FT MULTIPURPOSE/EXERCISE ROOM – Smart TV, DVD, Exercise Equipment equipped. $25/hour or Package Price. [email protected]. 704-516-2586.

OFFICE/EVENT SPACE FOR HOLISTIC PRACTITIONERS – Convenient to SouthPark, Dilworth, SouthEnd, Uptown, Ballantyne, and South Charlote. For pricing and to reserve space, go to ElementalHealingCharlotte.com.

WORKSHOP/EVENT SPACE – Reasonable rates. Flexible facility. [email protected]. 704-523-0062.

MISCELLANEOUS

BRAIN/BREAST TUMOR RELATED TO CELL PHONE USE – Movie director in Cali-fornia seeks individuals diagnosed with brain or breast tumor related to cell phone use for upcom-ing fi lm. Details at [email protected].

Fee for classifieds is a minimum charge of $25 for up to the first 20 words and $1 for each additional word. To place an ad, email [email protected]. Deadline is the 12th of the month.

FOR RENT

Darkness cannot drive out darkness;

only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love

can do that.

~Martin Luther King, Jr.


DENTISTRY

PALMER DISTINCTIVE DENTISTRYDrs. Joe Palmer and Daniel Knause134 Milestone Way, Greenville, SC864-501-5975PalmerDMD.com

Biological Dentistry using the highest standards of biocom-patible dentistry as defi ned by the Inter-national Academy of

Oral Medicine and Toxicology. One-visit crowns, laser-assisted periodontal therapy and ozone thera-py; fl uoride-free offi ce. See ad, page 17.

EDUCATION

KENT-COOK INSTITUTE400 N Harbor Pl, Ste C, Davidson704-896-3111KentCookInstitute.com

Online or on campus. Ac-credited School with class-es in Mediumship Devel-opment, Spiritual Healing and Philosophical Meta-physics. The Kent-Cook Institute on Lake Norman has a full curriculum. See ad, page 33.

FITNESS

INNERGYWORKS TOTAL BODY STUDIOS5200 Park Rd, Ste 124704-516-2586InnergyWorks.com

Become fi t and healthy with us. Receive a custom fitness plan incorporating yoga, pilates and ca rd io . Complemen t w i th therapeutic massage. Improve circulation with one of Charlotte’s only providers of BEMER therapy. See ad, page 33.

GIFT SHOPS

FREE SPIRIT GIFT SHOPMarie Hadden2621 Weddington Rd704-291-9393Free Spirit Gift Shop on Facebook

Come experience all the peace and joy a spiritual shop can off er. We off er a wide variety of items for your enjoyment. Now off ering Shamanic Read-ings and Shamanic Journeys. See ad, page 4.

GIFT SHOPS

THE NOOK STORE400 N Harbor Place Dr, Ste C, Davidson704-896-3111KentCookInstitute.com

The Nook Store, a Di-vinely Unique Mystical Boutique on Lake Norman, the gem of The Nook. We carry the tools you need for your spiritual journey. See ad, page 33.

GLUTEN FREEMRS. GFCharlotte704-488-1304Mrs-GF.com

Handmade gluten free baked goods, made fresh weekly. Lo-cally sourced ingredients. Items include: yeast and quick breads, muffi ns, cookies and pies. Gluten free-vegan and Paleo options available. See recipe, page 32.

HOMEOPATHYCAROLINAS NATURAL HEALTH CENTERDr Michael Smith1114 Sam Newell Rd, Ste A704-708-4404CarolinasNaturalHealth.com

C h a r l o t t e ’s o n l y d o c t o r specializing in homeopathy – a power system of natural medicine that stimulates your body’s natural ability to heal, without side eff ects. Anxiety/Depression, ADHD, Behavioural issues, Eczema, auto-immune disease, hormonal imbalance, and much more. See ad, page 31.

HYPNOSIS

QUIT SMOKING • LOSE WEIGHTMark Bell, CPLC, C.H.704-604-5018CharlotteHypnosisServices.com

Enhance your life. Past life regression, stress reduction, quit smoking, lose weight, break bad habits, gain confi dence and more. Call now to schedule.

STRESS RELIEF, ANXIETY MANAGE-MENT, PAST LIVES REGRESSION Heidi E. Kent, C.Ht. & Marsha G. Cook, C.Ht.704-896-3111

Your mind is an organic com-puter riddled with belief sys-tems, programs and fears. We provide the tools you need for your spiritual journey. Relief is an appointment away. See ad, page 33.

INTEGRATIVE PEDIATRICIAN

INFINITE HEALTH, PLLCSheila Kilbane, MDDeborah Allen, Integrative Pharmacist2201 Park Rd, Ste B, Charlotte704-626-6771 · SheilaKilbane.com

Dr. Kilbane is a board-cer-t ified pediatrician who trained in integrative medi-cine. She works with fami-lies to fi nd the root cause of illnesses such as: reflux, eczema, allergies, recurrent

ear and sinus infections, asthma, constipation and abdominal pain. Deborah Allen leads a gut restora-tion program for adults.

INTEGRATIVE WELLNESS

THE CENTER FOR PRANIC HEALINGDr. Kenneth and Connie Williams5200 Park Rd. Ste 200A, Charlotte850-380-0561 PranicHealingandWellness.com

Comprehensive energy healing curriculum, certi-fi cations, private healing sessions, meditation, spir-itual retreats, NCBTMB and NASW CE hrs, and

more for individuals and families! Come grow with us! See ad, page 14.

INTUITIVE DEVELOPMENT

GINA SPRIGGSFuturist. Holistic Intuitive. Mentor.704-846-0217GinaSpriggs.Guru

Are you at a crossroads with work, relationships or personal pur-pose? Would you like to peer into the future you are creating & determine if it’s one you want? Schedule your session today via GinaSpriggs.Guru (& get your FREE Gift!) See ad, page 14.

LIFE COACH

FIND THE TRUE MEDorothy Taylor, CLC, CHCharlotte 919-889-0457 • [email protected]

Find a clear path to your true center of power and happiness and reach your full potential through the power of your own mind. Dorothy Taylor Certifi ed Life Coach, Consulting Hypnotist and Professional Astrologer with over 12 years experience.


REIKI

REIKI EDUCATION & RESEARCH INSTITUTE 704-644-3644ReikiEducation.org

A non-profit organization delivering Reiki Natural Hea l ing and Persona l Empowerment Programs (All levels), Metaphysical Programs, Retreats, Reiki C l in ics , Adu l t s /Youth Programs, Research and More… See ad, page 9.

SHAMANISM

ROBBIE WARREN, OTTER WOMAN STANDINGSpiritual Guide and Ceremonialist [email protected]

Guidance, Ceremonies and healing steeped in traditions of ancient Shamanism. Working with Spirit Guides and Ancestors, Robbie brings clarity and perspective to situations that create confusion and disease.

SPAS

RESPIRA VITA SALT & SAUNA7800-F Stevens Mill Rd, Matthews704-628-5788RespiraVita.com

The Greater Charlotte Area’s premier provider of all-natural salt therapy (halotherapy), full-spectrum infrared sauna, ther-mal massage bed, energy thera-py (reiki) and licensed massage. See ad, page 11.

SPIRITUAL CENTERS

SPIRITUAL LIGHT CENTER OF CHARLOTTERev. Rebecca Nagy, Spiritual Leader7300 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte704-599-1180 · SLCofCharlotte.org

10:30 a.m. Sunday service and meditation. Spiritual but not religious? Looking for a vibrant, inclusive and non-denominational spiritual family that honors you on your spiritual journey? Then SLCC is for you. Meditations, classes and more.

LYMPHATIC CLEANSE

JENNIFER DILLON, DC, CCN447 S Sharon Amity, Ste 110704-333-9991DillonNaturalHealth.com

The Light Beam Generator is a non-invasive oxygen based detoxifi cation system helping to restore function and assist the lymphatic system. When this circulatory system is congested, the whole system becomes toxic causing chronic infl ammation as well as many other issues. See ad, page 12.

MASSAGE

JEFFREY SHOAF, LMBT (#14847)Certified Yoga Therapist726 E. Blvd. Charlotte, NC309-287-0576JBShoaf113.wix.com/jeffreyshoaf

Offering therapeutic massage, bodywork, and yoga therapy, utilizing myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and physical assessment tools for a collaborative approach to client centered health!

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN

CAROLINAS NATURAL HEALTH CENTERDr Michael Smith1114 Sam Newell Rd, Ste A704-708-4404CarolinasNaturalHealth.com

Diabetes, Depression, Digestive Disorders, Allergies, Auto-immune disease, Anxiety , ADHD. Charlotte’s only doctor specializing in homeopathy. We focus on treating YOU to uncover the cause of your health condition and empower you to better health! See ad, page 31.

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIANOF THE EARTH WELLNESS, LLC Dr. Dave Hamilton10715 Shopton Rd W, Charlotte980-272-1897 · OfTheEarthWellness.com

A community of healing and non-judgment. You are an individual and encouraged to be an active participant in your own health. We treat a variety of health concerns from the common cold to chronic illness. Begin your journey today. Plant the seed of health. Grow balanced naturally. See ad, page 6.

NUTRITIONINTEGRA WELLNESS CENTERFunctional NutritionRhya Pachin, LDN, RDN, CLT704-360-8889 · IntegraWellnessCenter.com

Evidence-based nutrition science to support the body as a whole to address the root cause of health imbalance. Custom elimination diets for IBS/IBD, fi bromyalgia, food sensitivities, and other chronic inflammatory conditions. Accepts most insurance. See ad, page 6.

PSYCHIC

SPIRITUAL PSYCHIC MEDIUMHeidi E Kent, M.A. CM, C.Ht.423-300-8618HeidisReadings.com

Heidi E. Kent, co-director of The Kent-Cook Institute, is a certifi ed psychic medium, master palmist, spiritual communicator, numerolo-gist, relationship counselor, metaphysical teacher and certifi ed hypnotherapist. Heidi guides you to the place of “what to do, what to do, what to do”! See ad, page 33.

REIKIA REIKI LIFE ACADEMY®5200 Park Rd, Ste 105, Charlotte704-996-4079AReikiLife.com

Off ering reiki treatment for adults, children and animals; comprehensive reiki educational programs; and NCBTMB continuing education. Nancy Bunt, founder and director, has over 21 years of experience with reiki in both clinical settings and private practice, as well as an extensive background in mind-body

wellness. See ad, page 31.

Exercise should be regarded as tribute to the heart. ~Gene Tunney


SPIRITUAL CENTERS

UNITY OF CHARLOTTE Rev. Nancy Ennis and Rev. David Hulse401 E. Arrowood Rd704-523-0062UnityOfCharlotte.org

Unity features a vibrant, joyous Sunday Cele-bration Service at 10:30am with terrifi c music, inspiring mes-sages and a warm, wel-coming spiritual com-

munity. Off ering classes and workshops throughout the week with activities that support your health, wellness and spiritual journey. See ad, page 9.

UNITY SPIRITUAL CENTER OF CHARLOTTE 704-619-9029CharlotteSpiritualCenter.orgFind us on Facebook & Meetup

Charlotte’s new spiritual community is grounded in Uni ty Metaphys ics , A Course in Miracles, and re-lated eastern teachings. Sun-day evening service, Mon-day ACIM study group, & Wednesday meditation/dis-cussion. See ad, page 15.

SPIRITUAL CONSULTANTMARY E. AMONMary the Metaphysical Maven808-283-5249MaryEAmon.com

Mary offers spiritually guided sessions that provide new tools to help you “see” yourself and your life path more clearly. Clients reconnect with their authentic self-worth and develop deeper more meaningful relationships with healthy boundaries. You will be guided towards your unique path of spiritual growth in a

loving and no-nonsense manner.

JANET SUSSMANIntuitive [email protected]

Founder of the Sunpoint™ method of energy balancing & realignment, transformational musician, & author. Over 30 yrs experience working with adults & children focus ing on l i fe purpose , creativity, personal relationships, and the challenges of the spiritual quest. Ongoing classes, workshops & t rans format iona l mus ic concerts.

TAI CHI/QIGONGEMPOWER LIFE CENTERCamilo Sanchez, LAc, MOM704-542-8088EmpowerLifeCenter.com

Learn authentic Chen Tai Chi and Taoist Elixir Qigong under the guidance of 20th generation Master Instructor Lao Shi, Camilo Sanchez, L. Ac, MOM. Tai Chi has been called the “Perfect exercise” for mind/body wellness. Promote fi tness,

improve health, relieve pain, boost energy, reduce stress & learn self-defense skills.

THERMOGRAPHYJENNIFER DILLON, DC, CCN447 S Sharon Amity, Ste 110704-333-9991DillonNaturalHealth.com

Thermography is a non-invasive way to visualize the health of a tissue. Identify infl ammation in breast tissue and other areas of the body. Detect issues early to allow time to make a change before diagnosis occurs. See ad, page 12.

THYROID HEALTH

ENDONORM USA1604 Cureton Ct, Rock Hill, SC803-322-4561 • [email protected]/en/home

Endonorm is a new, non-hormon-al therapy to help recover normal thyroid function without lifelong hormonal therapy or surgery. Ef-fective for patients who have not exceeded 2 to 3 years on syn-thetic hormones. Call or email today to order or get more infor-mation.

VETERINARIAN

ATRIUM ANIMAL HOSPITALDr Kim Hombs, DVM, CVA, CVCH, CTui-Na6520 McMahon Dr, 704-542-2000AtriumAnimalHospital.com

The most comprehensive Holistic/Integrative Animal Medicine Practice in the Charlotte region. Alternative vaccine approaches, double certifi ed acupuncturist and herbalist, off ering cold and class 4 laser, TCM food therapy, Tui-na,

Animal Rehabilitation with underwater treadmill. See ad, page 13.

YOGA

INTEGRA WELLNESS CENTERRestorative YogaLisa Moore, E-RYT 500, AWP704-360-8889 · IntegraWellnessCenter.com

Off ering gentle, restorative yoga for all ability levels that i s s a fe , adap tab le and contemplative. Educational workshops on yoga and Ayurveda in wellness facility near Ballantyne. See ad, page 6.

LEAN ESCAPES ARTS AND FITNESS10926 S Tryon St980-495-5420LeanEscapes.com

A creative escape to wellness – mind and body. Enjoy yoga, cardio , pa in t ing , photography, writing

and more. Escape to you at Lean Escapes! See ad, page 11.

Practice in the Charlotte region. Alternative vaccine approaches, double certifi ed acupuncturist and herbalist, off ering cold and class 4 laser, TCM food therapy, Tui-na,

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January 2017 Issue

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